MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) is preparing to file obstruction of justice complaints against Sen. Robinhood Padilla and several unidentified individuals over the alleged escape of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa from Senate premises earlier this month.
In a statement released Wednesday, the CIDG said its investigation found that dela Rosa’s departure was allegedly not a simple ride-sharing incident but a carefully planned operation intended to prevent authorities from locating him.
According to the CIDG, evidence gathered during the probe suggested that Padilla’s vehicle was used as part of a coordinated maneuver designed to help dela Rosa evade possible arrest.
The police unit said complaints for violation of Presidential Decree No. 1829, or the Obstruction of Justice law, would be endorsed before the Department of Justice’s National Prosecution Service.
Authorities added that another vehicle allegedly tailed Padilla’s car during the incident and supposedly acted as a backup and security escort while dela Rosa was being transported away from the Senate compound.
The CIDG has yet to publicly identify the other individuals who may also face charges.
Dela Rosa is currently being linked to the ongoing International Criminal Court investigation into the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign, which human rights groups claim resulted in thousands of deaths.
The senator had reportedly been placed under Senate “protective custody” on May 11 amid concerns over a possible ICC arrest warrant. However, following a shooting incident within the Senate grounds two days later, he reportedly left the premises aboard Padilla’s vehicle and headed toward Makati City, according to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
The CIDG stressed that assisting individuals in evading arrest undermines the country’s justice system and weakens law enforcement efforts.
Padilla, however, earlier denied helping dela Rosa escape, insisting that the latter merely asked for a ride and was dropped off in Makati without informing him of his destination.
The senator also disputed claims that an “escape” occurred, pointing out that numerous law enforcement personnel were present in the Senate area at the time.
Earlier, the Department of Justice directed both the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation to enforce the ICC warrant against dela Rosa should authorities locate him.
ia/xf
