Mao Aplasca, a retired police general and classmate of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, has recently been appointed as the Senate's new Sergeant-at-Arms. His return to this high-stakes position has already been marked by significant turmoil.
A Tumultuous Start
Just days into his role, Aplasca has been embroiled in a chaotic situation involving a confrontation with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the controversial escape of his mistah, Senator Dela Rosa, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
We were both coming from the provinces of Davao and we both… didn’t know how to speak Tagalog when we were in PMA.
Ronald dela Rosa, Senator
The incident began on the evening of May 13, when Dela Rosa went live on social media, claiming law enforcement was coming for him. Aplasca quickly ordered the Senate building locked down, anticipating an arrest.
Reports indicate that a chase ensued, leading to a firefight involving Aplasca's team and the NBI. The conflicting narratives surrounding the events of that night highlight the complexities of security protocols within the Senate.
Aplasca has defended his decisions during the confrontation, stating that the actions taken were necessary for ensuring the safety of senators amidst escalating tensions.
A Deep Connection
Aplasca and Dela Rosa's bond dates back to their days at the Philippine Military Academy. Their shared experiences have forged a connection that extends into their current political endeavors.
Despite the challenges, Aplasca expressed concern for Dela Rosa's well-being, emphasizing the need for proper security to protect his classmate, who is facing serious legal issues.
As the Senate grapples with the fallout from this situation, Aplasca's role as Sergeant-at-Arms will likely be scrutinized more than ever, especially in light of the historical precedent of political protection within the legislature.
The implications of Aplasca's appointment and the subsequent events could have lasting impacts on the Senate's operations and its relationship with law enforcement agencies.