Manila: The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has reportedly gathered leads regarding the whereabouts of Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, who is currently facing a warrant of arrest issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), as revealed by NBI Director Melvin Matibag during a Tuesday briefing. Matibag, however, refrained from disclosing further details about the leads.

According to Philippines News Agency, Matibag pointed out that Senator Robin Padilla could provide more information, as he was the last person seen with Dela Rosa. Addressing the Manila City Hall Reporters' Association (MACHRA) at the Harbor View Restaurant, Matibag urged Dela Rosa to surrender. He emphasized that, having served as the former chief of the Philippine National Police under President Rodrigo Duterte, Dela Rosa should be well aware of the importance of adhering to law enforcement procedures. Matibag referenced the conduct of former Senators Antonio Trillanes IV and Leila de Lima, who complied with warrants of arrest while serving as senators.

Dela Rosa reportedly exited the Senate premises with Senator Robinhood Padilla on May 14, shortly after a gunfire incident occurred at the Senate the night before. Dela Rosa had been placed under Senate's protective custody following his appearance on May 11, after a nearly six-month absence.

In relation to the gunfire incident, Matibag suggested that Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano, not himself, should face suspension due to command responsibility. Matibag questioned the actions of the Office of Sergeant-at-Arms acting chief Mao Aplasca, who admitted to firing a warning shot on May 13. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla had ordered Aplasca's preventive suspension after the incident. Cayetano responded by suggesting that if others involved in the exchange of gunfire were suspended, Matibag should also be considered for suspension.

Matibag stressed that accountability should be based on actions in accordance with the law, not just the positions held. He expressed willingness to participate in any investigation and to accept the consequences if found culpable. The NBI is nearing the completion of its investigation into the shooting incident and plans to defer the final conclusions to the Department of Justice, which has already assembled its own panel for further examination.