Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa was absent on the first day of the resumed Senate session, leaving his seat vacant as senators returned to work Monday.
The former police chief has not appeared in the chamber since the Senate adjourned in December. His absence began after reports circulated that the International Criminal Court had issued an arrest warrant against him. The court’s action was linked to allegations tied to his time overseeing anti-drug operations, though the Senate has not released official documentation confirming the warrant.
Despite Dela Rosa’s absence, Sen. Robin Padilla defended his colleague, saying Monday that the missing lawmaker continues to work even if he is not physically present in the Senate. Padilla did not provide specifics about Dela Rosa’s activities or how he was fulfilling his duties.
In an ambush interview, Senate President Tito Sotto said Dela Rosa has not contacted him regarding his attendance or status. Sotto said he does not know when, or if, Dela Rosa plans to return to the chamber.
Sotto also expressed puzzlement over how Dela Rosa was able to sign a minority report or minority opinion submitted by the Senate’s minority bloc. The Senate president did not elaborate on the procedures involved in the signature or how it was processed in Dela Rosa’s absence.
The situation has raised questions among some senators and observers about the responsibilities and obligations of elected officials who are routinely absent. Dela Rosa has not issued a public statement on his absence or the status of the reported arrest warrant.
As the Senate continues its session, Dela Rosa’s absence remains a notable issue, with no clear indication of when he might return.
