The Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) has stated that the recent shooting incident at the Senate is connected to the escape of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa. CIDG chief PMaj. Gen. Robert Morico II said the two events are interrelated, though he refrained from preempting the final findings of the Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation.
Details of the Incident
Morico revealed that a backup pickup vehicle was waiting outside the Senate after Dela Rosa and his companions left the building. However, the official declined to comment on whether the shooting was staged as a supervening event to justify the senator’s departure.
Ongoing Investigation
Currently, six individuals are under investigation for possible obstruction of justice. Among them is Senator Robin Padilla, who was previously charged by the CIDG before the DOJ for allegedly aiding Dela Rosa’s escape.
The CIDG chief emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that they are gathering more evidence to determine the full extent of the connection between the two incidents. He also assured the public that the police are coordinating closely with the DOJ to ensure a thorough and impartial probe.
Senator Dela Rosa has yet to release a statement regarding the allegations. Meanwhile, Senator Padilla’s camp has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that his actions were within legal bounds.
