By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Monday that 20 firearms associated with the camp of Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa have been surrendered and are now under government custody following the revocation of the senator’s firearms licenses.
In a statement, the PNP said the turnover was facilitated through an authorized legal representative of Dela Rosa in Davao City on June 11. The firearms were inventoried, documented and formally received by police personnel before being transferred to the custody of the Regional Civil Security Unit in Region 11.
Police officials said all firearms were properly accounted for and corresponding acknowledgment receipts were issued during the turnover process.
The PNP added that the surrender was conducted in an orderly manner and in accordance with existing rules governing the handling and safekeeping of firearms whose licenses and registrations have been revoked.
The development follows the decision of the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office in May to revoke Dela Rosa’s license to own and possess firearms, along with the registrations covering 117 firearms reportedly registered under his name.
Authorities have not disclosed whether additional firearms remain unaccounted for or if further turnover activities are expected in the coming weeks.
The surrendered weapons are currently being secured at the Regional Civil Security Unit headquarters in Davao City pending further administrative and legal proceedings.
Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief and key figure in the Duterte administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign, remains under scrutiny in connection with proceedings before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The senator has been linked to investigations involving the government’s controversial war on drugs, which human rights organizations estimate resulted in tens of thousands of deaths during its implementation.
The ICC has been examining allegations of crimes against humanity tied to the anti-drug campaign, prompting efforts by authorities to address matters related to Dela Rosa’s firearms registrations and legal status.
Despite the latest development, no new statement has been issued by the senator regarding the surrender of the firearms or the status of the remaining weapons previously listed under his revoked licenses.
ia/xf
