MANILA. Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered an internal investigation into allegations that local police provided escort to Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa as he left the Senate compound on May 14.
PNP Chief’s Statement
“Let me be absolutely clear: the Philippine National Police does not operate on blind because the integrity of our institution is at stake. While we have received the initial clarification from the Pasay City Police Chief, I have already directed concerned investigative units to conduct an independent review of the logbooks, CCTV feeds, and radio dispatches from that morning,” Nartatez said on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Previous Confirmation
Earlier, Pasay City Police chief Col. Joselito de Sesto confirmed that he was inside a white police vehicle seen in a video leaving the Senate compound around 3 a.m. on May 14, along with a black van suspected to be carrying Dela Rosa. However, he denied providing any escort.
Potential Sanctions
“If the investigation reveals that there was any unauthorized coordination, false reporting, or logistical support given to evade legal processes, those involved will face the full brunt of administrative and criminal sanctions,” Nartatez added.
