Dela Rosa’s return triggers clash over immunity, ICC and Senate authority

Last updated: May 13, 2026 | 04:00

Philippines Senator Ronald Dela Rosa talks to the media during a doorstop interview at the Senate of the Philippines in Pasay, Metro Manila on May 12, 2026. AFP

Manila: What unfolded on May 11 inside the Senate complex in Pasay quickly escalated from routine plenary into a constitutional and political spectacle.

At the centre: Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa , who reappeared in the chamber after a six-month absence just as law enforcement officers attempted to serve processes related to allegations tied to the Duterte-era drug war.

Minutes after his arrival, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) personnel entered the premises with Antonio Trillanes IV, who showed reporters what he said was a copy of an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Tensions

Tension spilled into the corridors.

Later, the Senate released CCTV footage showing dela Rosa moving briskly through hallways…