Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa Shares Family Update Amid Ongoing ICC Controversy
Davao, Philippines — Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has offered a glimpse of normalcy in the midst of a high-profile legal and political storm, posting a heartfelt photo on social media earlier today showing him holding his “new apo” — Filipino for grandchild. The image, shared roughly three hours ago on his official account, drew an outpouring of well wishes from followers, with many commenting on the joyful milestone and expressing hopes for the senator’s safety and well-being.
In his brief caption, Dela Rosa simply wrote, “my new apo,” alongside the photo of him cradling the infant, prompting warm congratulations from supporters online.
This personal moment comes amidst heightened public and legal scrutiny surrounding the senator’s status after allegations involving an arrest warrant reportedly issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The controversy began in early November when Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla publicly stated that the ICC had issued a warrant of arrest against Dela Rosa in connection with his role in the anti-drug campaign during the Duterte administration. Remulla reiterated his claim in statements to media, saying he had seen an unofficial copy of the warrant, though he did not make it public.
However, the ICC itself has declined to confirm that such a warrant has been issued, with an official spokesperson stating that only the court’s formal communications channels can verify such matters. Likewise, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has said it has not yet received or seen an official document confirming a warrant, and continues to verify the reports.
Since that announcement, Dela Rosa’s absence from public engagements and Senate sessions has been noted. According to government officials, he has not attended Senate sittings since November 11 following the Ombudsman’s announcement, and authorities have been monitoring his movements. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said security agencies “know where he is,” without disclosing further details, and emphasized that Dela Rosa is not yet considered a fugitive in the absence of an actionable warrant.
Legal experts and Dela Rosa’s own counsel have stressed the complex constitutional and procedural questions involved, particularly regarding the enforceability of any ICC warrant given the Philippines’ withdrawal from the Rome Statute and the need for domestic legal processes to govern surrender or arrest.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the warrant’s existence and enforceability, the senator’s recent social media post appears to have struck a chord with many Filipinos. Comments flooding the post reflect a mix of supportive sentiments and prayers for his safety, underscoring the deep public interest in both his personal life and legal predicament.
As the legal review continues and the Supreme Court is expected to play a pivotal role in any possible enforcement actions, Dela Rosa remains a central figure in one of the country’s most watched legal and political developments of the year.
source: Philstar & Business Mirror
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