Senate President Vicente Sotto III has recommended that the Senate Ethics Committee issue a show-cause order against Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who has been physically absent from legislative proceedings for nearly six months.
The move follows a formal ethics complaint filed in February by the anti-corruption group “Wag Kang KuCorrupt,” which accused the senator of dereliction of duty and abuse of public trust. Dela Rosa has not attended a single Senate session or committee hearing since November 11, 2025.
“Ang isa-suggest ko is ipaalam namin kay Senator Bato na hingan namin siya ng sagot sa complaint sa kaniya sa ethics,” Sotto told reporters.
“He should explain why he continues to receive his salary and allowances despite his record absences.”
REASONS FOR ABSENCE
Dela Rosa’s disappearance from the public eye coincided with reports that the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against him for his role as the chief architect of the Duterte administration’s “War on Drugs.”
- Safety Concerns: His legal counsel, Atty. Israelito Torreon, previously stated that the senator is avoiding public appearances because his “personal safety is at stake” and he is verifying the validity of the reported ICC warrant.
- Continued Compensation: Despite his absence, Dela Rosa has continued to receive his full salary and benefits. Senate Finance Committee records indicate that the chamber does not follow a “no work, no pay” policy for elected members.
ETHICS COMMITTEE ACTION
The Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, chaired by Senator JV Ejercito, convened on Monday to discuss the matter. Ejercito previously revealed that Dela Rosa had reached out expressing a willingness to waive his salary and allowances to ease the pressure on the chamber, though no formal waiver has been signed.
If the show-cause order is issued, Dela Rosa will be formally required to submit a written explanation for his absence.
Failure to provide a satisfactory reason could lead to disciplinary actions, ranging from a formal reprimand to a possible suspension.