MANILA — The Department of Justice is evaluating a renewed police complaint over the May departure of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa from the Senate, with prosecutors determining whether obstruction-of-justice allegations should proceed to preliminary investigation.
Justice Undersecretary Ian Norman Evaristo Dato said the submission remains under evaluation and no subpoenas have been issued. He declined to identify possible respondents.
The case is separate from the government’s earlier investigation into the May 13 gunfire at the Senate complex.
The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group initially filed an obstruction complaint May 28 against Sen. Robinhood Padilla and others, alleging they helped Dela Rosa avoid apprehension. The DOJ returned the complaint in June for additional documents and statements. Dato said the current submission was filed Aug. 11.
Padilla has denied helping Dela Rosa escape, saying the senator merely asked for a ride and was dropped off in Makati City. Police investigators have alleged that Dela Rosa’s departure involved coordinated assistance. No criminal liability has been established.
Government investigators later concluded that the Senate was not under attack during the May gunfire. Former acting Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca acknowledged firing what he described as a warning shot and was later found administratively liable by the Ombudsman for grave misconduct and gross neglect of duty.
