The Department of Justice (DOJ) has ordered law enforcement agencies to immediately arrest Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa after the Supreme Court (SC) rejected the lawmaker's petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO).
Justice Secretary Directs NBI and PNP
Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to serve the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Dela Rosa. The warrant is based on a case involving alleged crimes against humanity linked to the bloody war on illegal drugs during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
The Supreme Court announced its 9-5-1 vote on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, dismissing Dela Rosa's petition for a temporary restraining order and status quo ante order. The high court clarified that its decision pertains only to the requests for interim relief, while deeper constitutional and legal issues remain pending judgment.
NBI Director Confirms Arrest Plan
“The order is to arrest Senator Dela Rosa, so we’ll do so without delay,” said NBI Director Melvin Matibag. “In carrying out the arrest, we will strictly abide by the rules and ensure it is done professionally, as we always do.”
Matibag added that Dela Rosa would be arrested “whether he likes it or not because we need to enforce the law without fear or favor.”
OSG Supports SC Decision
The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) concurred with the high court's decision, stating that the denial of the TRO confirms there is no legal obstacle to enforcing the warrant. In a comment submitted on May 16, the OSG opposed the injunction request, arguing that Dela Rosa failed to show a clear right requiring urgent protection or prove imminent and irreparable damage.
The OSG also stated that “a person who distances himself from law enforcement by hiding is not entitled to seek equity.”
PNP Assures Professional Conduct
Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., chief of the PNP, said the police force recognizes the authority of competent government agencies and will comply with their mandate in accordance with due process.
“The PNP likewise assures the public that all actions undertaken shall remain impartial, professional, and within the bounds of the law, with full respect for the constitutional rights of all parties concerned,” Nartatez said in a statement.
Background of the Arrest Order
The arrest order follows the NBI's attempt to serve the warrant on May 11, and the shooting incident at the Senate on May 13. Matibag assured the NBI's full cooperation with the DOJ fact-finding panel investigating those events.
The NBI said it has provided the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) with sworn statements from deployed personnel, as well as full access to video recordings and radio communications from May 11 to 13.
