PNP continues hunt for Bato dela Rosa amid talks with alleged protectors

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said its efforts to arrest Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa remain ongoing despite reported negotiations with individuals allegedly protecting him.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Allen Rae Co said authorities cannot disclose details of the negotiations or their operations, as this could pose risks to their mission, police personnel, and concerned individuals.

"Operational details cannot be publicly discussed as this will compromise our ongoing operations and could pose danger to the safety of everyone involved, not just our personnel but everyone involved," Co said at a press briefing on Wednesday.

"What we can confirm is that our efforts are ongoing and relentless. We will not yield and we will not be distracted from our goal," he added.

The PNP said individuals who assist Dela Rosa could also face legal consequences. The possible liability of the alleged protectors would depend on the nature of their cooperation.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued a warrant of arrest for Dela Rosa in connection with the crimes against humanity case involving former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Rae confirmed that Dela Rosa is still in the Philippines. According to him, the senator is considered a flight risk.

The PNP said it is also pursuing the recovery of firearms registered to Dela Rosa.

Of the 117 registered firearms linked to Dela Rosa, 20 were surrendered in Davao Region while six were surrendered in Calabarzon, leaving 91 firearms still unaccounted for, according to Rae.

The PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) is coordinating with Dela Rosa's family for the surrender of the remaining firearms. — VDV, GMA News