Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa made a dramatic return to the Senate on May 11, 2026, just as he was being pursued by agents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). His appearance coincided with a coup against Senate President Tito Sotto, as Dela Rosa cast a pivotal vote supporting Alan Peter Cayetano as the new Senate president.
Prior to his vote, Dela Rosa was reportedly chased by NBI agents attempting to serve an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to his involvement in the previous administration's controversial war on drugs. This warrant was confirmed by former senator Antonio Trillanes.
CCTV footage captured Dela Rosa rushing through the Senate complex, taking fire escape stairs and stumbling mid-motion, yet managing to continue his sprint towards the plenary hall.
Once inside, Dela Rosa appeared breathless and was quickly attended to by allies and medical staff. Security measures escalated, with the Senate complex being put on lockdown to prevent NBI agents from leaving.
Cayetano's Leadership and Dela Rosa's Support
Cayetano, who secured the Senate presidency with 13 votes against Sotto's 9, declared that under his leadership, the Senate would not permit Dela Rosa's arrest, citing precedents from previous cases involving other senators.
Dela Rosa's situation has sparked controversy, as Trillanes argues that the Senate's actions effectively protect a fugitive. Meanwhile, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that the local police would not enforce the ICC warrant unless Interpol intervenes.
This unfolding drama occurs as the looming impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte intensifies political tensions in the country.
The warrant that Senator Trillanes holds is a correspondence by the ICC to the PCTC. However, we are not part of the treaty. We are affording Senator Dela Rosa due process by waiting for the Interpol to serve notice to the PCTC.
Jonvic Remulla, DILG Secretary