MANILA — Cagayan de Oro 1st District Rep. Lordan Suan has denied social media claims that he plans to file a so-called “shoot-to-kill” resolution against Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who remains in hiding amid an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant.
In a statement to the media, Suan categorically denied making any threat to convene a House committee hearing or file such a resolution if dela Rosa refuses to surrender in connection with the ICC warrant.
“I have never issued such a warning, nor have I advocated, threatened, or contemplated any such action,” Suan said.
The lawmaker, who is also a member of the prosecution panel in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, said he firmly believes in due process and the rule of law.
“I do not, and will not, engage in rhetoric that undermines these foundations of our democracy or endangers public order,” he added.
SUAN CALLS CLAIMS FABRICATED
Suan said the circulating claims were fabricated and had no basis in any of his statements, interviews, public remarks or legislative actions.
He also warned that such disinformation could harm his reputation and office, as well as the public’s right to accurate information.
He urged the public to verify information through official sources, including his social media accounts and those of the House of Representatives.
HOUSE RESOLUTIONS DO NOT HAVE FORCE OF LAW
House resolutions, when adopted, generally express the chamber’s position or sentiment on an issue. They do not have the force of law and cannot compel the executive department to take action.
Suan has also been the subject of false claims circulating online in the past.
ICC WARRANT AND GOVERNMENT MANHUNT FOR DELA ROSA
The ICC unsealed on May 11, 2026, an arrest warrant against Dela Rosa that was originally issued on November 6, 2025. The warrant concerns allegations of crimes against humanity, specifically murder, in connection with at least 32 killings between July 2016 and April 2018 during the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign. Dela Rosa was then serving as chief of the Philippine National Police.
The allegations remain subject to judicial proceedings before the ICC.
The senator has remained out of public view amid efforts by Philippine authorities to locate and arrest him.
On October 26, 2026, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced a P50-million reward for information leading to Dela Rosa’s arrest, while authorities also organized a dedicated task force to locate him.
The developments have drawn renewed attention to the legal and operational circumstances surrounding the senator’s possible arrest.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed authorities to carry out the arrest lawfully and without loss of life, according to a Palace statement reported on October 25.