MANILA, Philippines — Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced on Sunday, May 10, 2026, that the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) will officially issue a subpoena to Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa. The order requires the senator to personally appear before investigators today, Monday, May 11, 2026, to address renewed investigations into over 100 cases of extrajudicial killings (EJKs) and his role as the “tip of the spear” in the previous administration’s drug war.
Secretary Remulla emphasized that the document is “not an arrest warrant” but a formal summons to aid in a purely domestic investigation.
The move marks a significant step by the Philippine National Police (PNP) to reopen probes into human rights abuses documented during Dela Rosa’s tenure as Davao City police chief, regional director, and later as Chief of the PNP.
- Basis of the Probe: PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that the investigation will rely on findings from the House Quad-Committee hearings and other documented complaints of abuse that have never been personally addressed by the senator.
- Targeted Information: Authorities are focusing on over 100 alleged EJK cases that occurred during his time as Davao City police director and regional director.
- Alert Status: While Remulla clarified there are no plans for an arrest or the use of handcuffs, all airports, seaports, and checkpoints have been alerted to monitor the senator’s movements. Dela Rosa is currently believed to be in the Davao region.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) addressed rumors regarding the International Criminal Court (ICC), which currently detains former President Rodrigo Duterte in The Hague.
- Rumor Denial: Remulla denied reports of an Interpol “red notice” or an ICC-issued arrest warrant for Dela Rosa, following a weekend of speculation. On Saturday, May 9, the ICC also clarified that no such public warrants had been issued.
- Internal Process: “This is a purely internal matter,” Remulla stressed. “We are not a member of the ICC… we cannot move forward as a country until there’s a reconciliation of the truth.”
- Respectful Treatment: The Secretary assured that the senator would be treated with the respect due to his office, stating that the process is strictly for investigation and not a manhunt.
The subpoena follows a prolonged period where the senator has been largely absent from the Senate.
- Senate Hiatus: Records show Dela Rosa has missed 31 out of 58 session days during the first regular session of the 20th Congress and has not reported to work since November 11, 2025.
- Ethics Complaint: He currently faces an ethics complaint in the Senate regarding his extended absence, which began when rumors of an ICC warrant first intensified.
This news report summarizes the DILG’s formal decision to subpoena the senator and provides context on the domestic nature of the investigation compared to international proceedings.