Jake Ejercito could not resist making a joke about the viral CCTV footage showing Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa running inside the Senate while being chased by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). In a social media post, Ejercito quipped: “Strava reveal diyan, sen.” Strava is a fitness tracking app commonly used to record running, cycling, and other physical activities.
Viral Footage Sparks Reactions
The video, which quickly went viral, shows Dela Rosa sprinting through the Senate building. This incident coincided with his return to work after an absence of over six months. Authorities served him a warrant of arrest issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to his alleged role in the war on drugs under former President Rodrigo Duterte's administration.
Reports indicate that Dela Rosa could be brought to The Hague, Netherlands, where the ICC is based, to face charges of crimes against humanity linked to the anti-drug campaign. During his return to the Senate, Dela Rosa told the plenary that NBI personnel blocked his entry to the session hall to serve the warrant. He also claimed his fingers were injured as authorities chased him.
Online Reactions and Political Context
The incident drew varied reactions online. Some found humor in the viral footage, while others engaged in intense discussions about the escalating political issue. Ejercito, a member of the prominent Estrada-Ejercito political clan and half-brother of Senators Jinggoy Estrada and JV Ejercito, faced calls from netizens to speak out on issues involving his siblings.
The situation highlights the ongoing legal and political battles surrounding the Duterte administration's drug war and the ICC's involvement. As the story develops, more details are expected to emerge regarding Dela Rosa's legal status and the implications for Philippine politics.
