Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson confirmed on Sunday that Senator Ronald Dela Rosa has not reached out to Senate President Vicente Sotto III or other majority members since his absence began in November.
“As far as kay Senate President, sa akin, at saka yung ilang miyembro ng majority, wala. Wala talagang contact, walang paramdam. Nothing,” Lacson said in a radio interview.
Dela Rosa has missed all Senate sessions since November 11, following reports that the Office of the Ombudsman alleged an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him linked to the Duterte administration’s war on drugs, during which he served as Philippine National Police chief.
Senators are set to discuss his absence in a caucus on February 23. Lacson noted that the ethics committee could address the matter if a formal complaint is filed.
“Ang alam ko lang na pwedeng gawin kung sakaling mayroong maghain ng complaint sa ethics committee, ayun lang yung pwedeng maging venue kung ano yung pwedeng gawin sa situation siya,” he explained.
He also indicated that the Senate may revisit its rules and consider amendments for handling similar cases in the future.
“Kailangan i-revisit siguro yung rules, magkaroon ng amendment, depende ‘yan sa paguusap namin sa Lunes,” Lacson said.
Despite his prolonged absence, Dela Rosa continues to receive his salary, as dismissal requires an ethics committee ruling based on proven grave offenses.