The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is verifying reports that Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa was allegedly seen aboard a yacht traveling to an undisclosed province.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said authorities are currently assessing the information but noted that the reported sighting could be part of an attempt to mislead investigators searching for the senator.
According to Matibag, authorities are treating the report with caution while efforts continue to determine its accuracy.
Dela Rosa is being sought following the issuance of a warrant of arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has linked him as an alleged co-perpetrator in a crimes against humanity case related to the anti-drug campaign of the previous administration.
The NBI has not confirmed whether the reported yacht sighting is credible and said verification efforts remain ongoing.
Authorities have not disclosed additional details regarding the alleged destination of the yacht or the source of the information.
Dela Rosa was last publicly seen at the Senate on May 14, according to reports.
The appearance came just hours after a shooting incident inside the Senate complex. Some reports have suggested that the incident may have been used as a diversion to facilitate the senator’s departure from the area.
However, no official finding has been released linking the shooting incident to Dela Rosa’s movements.
The NBI continues to monitor leads and evaluate information related to the senator’s whereabouts.
Officials have emphasized that reports and alleged sightings must undergo verification before they can be considered reliable.
As of now, authorities have not confirmed the yacht sighting, and efforts to locate Dela Rosa remain ongoing amid the implementation of the ICC-issued warrant.
