The Philippine National Police (PNP) has formally revoked the license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF) and the registration of firearms belonging to fugitive Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa. The revocation order was signed by PNP-Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) director Brigadier General Jojo Manalad on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, based on Dela Rosa's pending case before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Legal Basis for Revocation
The order cited Section 4, second paragraph, sub-paragraph (g) of Republic Act No. 10591, which allows revocation of firearm licenses for individuals facing criminal charges. Dela Rosa holds a Type 5 LTOPF valid until March 10, 2034. The PNP directive requires him to immediately surrender all 117 of his registered firearms to the Supply Accountable Officer of PNP-FEO or the Regional Civil Security Unit 11 (RCSU 11) for proper disposition.
Background of the Case
Dela Rosa has been identified as a co-perpetrator alongside former President Rodrigo Duterte in crimes against humanity charges before the ICC, related to the implementation of the drug war. The ICC issued a confidential arrest warrant against Dela Rosa in November 2025, which was unsealed upon his return to the Senate on May 11, 2026, after a six-month absence.
The Senate placed the former top cop under protective custody, but he escaped on May 14 following a shooting incident in the Senate building that caused a commotion. On May 20, the Supreme Court denied Dela Rosa's petition for a temporary restraining order to prevent his arrest. Subsequently, the Department of Justice authorized the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation to arrest him.
The PNP emphasized that no special treatment is being given to Dela Rosa, and the revocation of his firearm licenses is a standard procedure in light of his legal situation. Authorities have also conducted raids in connection with the case, including an operation in Angeles City over the reported presence of Dela Rosa.
