The Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified that it sees no immediate need to seek an explanation from Senator Robin Padilla regarding the disappearance of Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, as Padilla’s own public statements already constitute sufficient admissions for legal evaluation.
Instead, the DOJ Panel of Prosecutors has shifted its focus to singer-songwriter turned lawyer Jimmy Bondoc, ordering an official letter to be sent requesting his cooperation in locating Dela Rosa, who is currently the subject of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for crimes against humanity.
“He admitted to many things that he did… exactly the reason why we are not asking him,” Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida stated in a press briefing, referring to Padilla.
Initial reports indicated that Dela Rosa left the Senate premises—where he was under protective custody—alongside Padilla between 2:30 a.m. and 3 a.m. on May 14. This occurred just hours after an alleged security attack on the Senate, a claim later rejected by police investigators.
Padilla previously admitted in media interviews that Dela Rosa hitched a ride in his vehicle and was dropped off at an undisclosed area in Makati City. Dela Rosa has not been seen since.
Vida revealed that prosecutors are currently reviewing Padilla’s public statements to determine if his actions warrant criminal liabilities, specifically for violations under Presidential Decree No. 1829, or obstruction of justice. The law penalizes acts such as concealing offenders, tampering with evidence or witnesses, misleading authorities, and delaying legal processes.
“Based on this factual milieu, or factual circumstances, can we lead to a conclusion that he, or a person is probably guilty of a particular crime,” Vida added.
The DOJ previously affirmed that the ICC arrest warrant against Dela Rosa—stemming from his role as the chief enforcer of the previous administration’s deadly drug war—is valid and enforceable. Under local laws, any public official found guilty of obstructing the enforcement of such mandates faces severe repercussions.
“Let me remind also that if you are a public official or an employee found guilty of committing these acts, the accessory penalty is perpetual disqualification from holding office,” Vida warned.
The DOJ noted that Padilla may only be formally summoned to explain his side once the ongoing case build-up progresses to a formal stage requiring his direct testimony.