Senator Robinhood Padilla has publicly defended his deputy chief of staff, retired Colonel Jean Robles, amid allegations that she assisted Senator Ronald dela Rosa in evading arrest last week. The accusations emerged after dela Rosa left the Senate despite being under protective custody.
Clarification on Events Surrounding Dela Rosa's Departure
Any insinuation that she acted impropriety or illegally is unfair, speculative, and irresponsible.
Senator Robinhood Padilla
The allegations surfaced after a warrant was issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) concerning dela Rosa's alleged role in the controversial drug war during former President Duterte's administration. Padilla emphasized that Robles was fulfilling her official duties when the incident occurred.
Padilla stated that on May 14, at approximately 2:30 a.m., he provided Robles a ride to her condominium, citing concern for her safety. He clarified that there was no lawful order restricting anyone from leaving the Senate at that time.
He further rejected any connection between Robles and Duterte, noting that she never served the former president directly. Robles has a military background, having served as an Army officer from 2002 to 2020, and later worked with the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Padilla concluded by asserting that Robles acted professionally and responsibly within her role as deputy chief of staff.
In related news, the NBI has intensified its manhunt for 'armed and dangerous' Senator Dela Rosa, as concerns grow over his recent actions. For more context, read our article on the implications of his candidacy in "Order in the Court: Why Is Bato Dela Rosa Running Again?".