MANILA, Philippines — From his sanctuary within the Senate premises, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa reached out to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, clarify his stance amid the ongoing standoff with law enforcement.
Dela Rosa, who remains under “protective custody” to avoid an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant, addressed the President directly during an impromptu press briefing, emphasizing that his frustrations are not directed at the Chief Executive.
Addressing the President as “Sir BBM,” Dela Rosa sought to dispel rumors of a deepening rift between himself and the Palace.
- Clarifying Intent: “I just want to remind Sir BBM, I’m not angry with you. I have no ill feelings,” Dela Rosa said. He explained that his previous emotional outbursts were fueled by the “aggressive” actions of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and not by the President’s overall leadership.
- A Plea for Protection: The Senator expressed hope that the President would uphold his earlier promises not to recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction. “I am holding on to your word, Sir, that you will not allow a foreign court to trample on our sovereignty.”
- The “Human” Aspect: Dela Rosa noted that he understands the political pressures the President is under, but asked for “consistency” in the administration’s handling of the ICC case.
Dela Rosa has not left the Senate building since Monday night, following a chaotic leadership change and a botched attempt by NBI agents to serve an arrest warrant.
- Life in “Custody”: The Senator was seen on Tuesday wearing a casual T-shirt and shorts, stating he has been sleeping in his office. He confirmed he has sufficient food and supplies, thanks to supporters and fellow senators.
- No Resistance, Just Law: Dela Rosa clarified that he is not “resisting” arrest in a criminal sense, but is instead waiting for the Supreme Court to rule on his petition for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO).
- Security Measures: New Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano has restricted access to the Senate halls, citing the need to protect the institution’s integrity after the NBI’s “hot pursuit” through the corridors.
The message from Dela Rosa comes as the Executive branch maintains a delicate balance:
- Palace Neutrality: Earlier that day, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin reiterated that the Palace would not interfere in Senate matters or the legal process regarding the ICC warrant.
- DILG Position: Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla maintained that the government will only act on a “valid legal document” from a Philippine court, effectively siding with the Senate’s refusal to recognize the international warrant for now.
The ICC warrant identifies Dela Rosa as a co-perpetrator alongside former President Rodrigo Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity committed during the “war on drugs.” The Senator faces these charges as the House of Representatives simultaneously transmits articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte to the Senate.
“I am just a soldier of the law. If a Philippine court says I must go, I will go. But I will not be taken by a bouncer or a foreign entity.” — Senator Bato Dela Rosa