PNP tightens Senate security amid tensions over ICC warrant vs. Bato dela Rosa

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday said it reinforced security deployment around the Senate building amid tensions following the release of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

In a statement, PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the move aims to preserve institutional stability and public order following the arrival of protesters near the Senate compound.

“Our presence at the Senate is strictly a proactive security measure to ensure public order and the safety of the institution,” he said.

“The PNP is here to provide perimeter security and prevent any potential civil disturbance arising from the current political situation,” he added.

Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV earlier presented an ICC arrest warrant for Dela Rosa and claimed it could be served within Senate premises.

The development drew heightened public attention around the Senate complex, where additional personnel from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and police units were seen deployed.

While most of the police forces had already left the area after the protest action concluded, Nartatez said police visibility would remain as part of ongoing security measures.

He said the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) was directed to continue monitoring the situation and implement real-time security adjustments if necessary.

Nartatez ordered police personnel on the ground to exercise maximum tolerance, particularly in dealing with protesters.

The PNP leadership earlier stressed that all police actions would remain anchored on due process and proper legal procedures.

According to Nartatez, the police organization remains bound by legal protocols and maintains institutional readiness for any scenario. — RSJ, GMA News