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Advocates Philippines
Chiz Escudero: Senate Won't Allow Arrest Of Its Members Inside Premises-Even For Bato Dela Rosa
Screengrab from Senate PH
Senate President Chiz Escudero made it clear—no senator will be arrested inside the Senate building, not even if the International Criminal Court (ICC) issues a warrant.
Speaking on the matter, Escudero emphasized that this isn’t about legal technicalities but rather “institutional courtesy.” That means the Senate, as an institution, will stand its ground in protecting its members from being taken into custody while inside its premises, especially during sessions.
“It’s not based on law, but on institutional courtesy,” Escudero explained. “The Senate will not allow the arrest of any of its members inside the premises, particularly when there is an ongoing session.”
A Safe Haven for Bato?
This pronouncement carries significant weight for Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief and key figure in the Duterte administration’s controversial war on drugs. Should the ICC move forward with an arrest warrant related to the drug war’s deadly crackdown, Escudero’s statement suggests that Dela Rosa could seek refuge within the Senate.
Even during session breaks, Escudero clarified that senators would still be protected—at least for a time.
“It’s not forever,” he said. “But it gives them enough time to clarify their legal remedies and seek resolution.”
With the ICC investigation still looming, Escudero’s stance underscores the Senate’s commitment to protecting its own. Whether this will spark further debate on international legal obligations remains to be seen.
Speaking on the matter, Escudero emphasized that this isn’t about legal technicalities but rather “institutional courtesy.” That means the Senate, as an institution, will stand its ground in protecting its members from being taken into custody while inside its premises, especially during sessions.
“It’s not based on law, but on institutional courtesy,” Escudero explained. “The Senate will not allow the arrest of any of its members inside the premises, particularly when there is an ongoing session.”
A Safe Haven for Bato?
This pronouncement carries significant weight for Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief and key figure in the Duterte administration’s controversial war on drugs. Should the ICC move forward with an arrest warrant related to the drug war’s deadly crackdown, Escudero’s statement suggests that Dela Rosa could seek refuge within the Senate.
Even during session breaks, Escudero clarified that senators would still be protected—at least for a time.
“It’s not forever,” he said. “But it gives them enough time to clarify their legal remedies and seek resolution.”
With the ICC investigation still looming, Escudero’s stance underscores the Senate’s commitment to protecting its own. Whether this will spark further debate on international legal obligations remains to be seen.
Mar 17, 2025
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