Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa has formally requested protection from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. following the confirmation of an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
During a video call with supporters outside the Senate building, Dela Rosa stated, "President PBBM, I am a Filipino. I am your constituent."
You have no personal grudge against me, you know that. I hope that as a Filipino, you will protect me as well.
Dela Rosa is currently under the Senate's protective custody as he faces potential legal actions related to his involvement in the previous administration's controversial war on drugs.
He urged the President to ensure that law enforcement agencies adhere to the legal processes established by the Supreme Court.
Dela Rosa's request for protection comes as he prepares to defend himself against allegations linked to crimes against humanity, with reports suggesting that between 12,000 to 30,000 individuals were killed during the drug war.
The ICC's warrant was issued under seal on November 6, 2025, and was confirmed earlier this week. Dela Rosa's recent appearance in the Senate marked his first public engagement since going into hiding last November.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) attempted to arrest him but failed, acknowledging the Senate's protective measures.