By el Amigo
MANILA, Philippines — Authorities have determined the whereabouts of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and are negotiating with individuals allegedly helping him evade arrest, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Tuesday.
Remulla said government authorities are aware of where Dela Rosa is staying but declined to disclose the location or identify those allegedly protecting him.
“We know where he is. There are negotiations with his protectors,” Remulla said in an interview with One News’ “Storycon.”
He described Dela Rosa’s alleged protectors as “very powerful people,” but said he would reveal their identities only after authorities have completed their efforts to secure the senator’s surrender.
Remulla explained that the government is pursuing negotiations to prevent a violent confrontation that could result in casualties.
“There will be casualties,” he said when asked why authorities were negotiating instead of immediately arresting the senator.
The interior secretary said the government is prepared to employ its available resources to compel Dela Rosa to leave hiding, including economic and military measures.
“We will use all the levers of government,” Remulla said, without providing further details.
Dela Rosa is facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court in connection with the crimes against humanity case involving former president Rodrigo Duterte. He has been described in the case as a co-perpetrator.
The senator went into hiding after a shooting incident erupted at the Senate on May 14.
ia/xf
