MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida on Tuesday said he expects the firearm licenses of Sen. Ronald Bato dela Rosa to be revoked as soon as possible as authorities continue efforts linked to the senator’s ongoing legal situation.
DOJ SEEKS IMMEDIATE ACTION ON FIREARM PERMITS
Speaking during a press briefing, Vida said he plans to discuss the matter with Melencio Nartatez Jr., emphasizing that firearm ownership is a privilege granted by the government and not an absolute right.
According to Vida, licenses issued for firearms may be withdrawn by authorities when circumstances warrant such action.
NBI REQUESTS CANCELLATION OF FIREARM LICENSES
The development came after the National Bureau of Investigation confirmed that it had formally requested the Philippine National Police to revoke permits covering approximately 100 firearms reportedly registered under Dela Rosa.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the firearms allegedly include high-powered weapons such as automatic rifles and shotguns.
Authorities said the request was made based on security considerations as investigations continue.
DELA ROSA REMAINS OUT OF PUBLIC VIEW
Dela Rosa is being sought by the International Criminal Court over allegations of crimes against humanity tied to his role in the anti-drug campaign during the Duterte administration.
The senator resurfaced at the Senate earlier this month to participate in a vote that led to leadership changes in the chamber.
However, days later, he reportedly left Senate premises and again went out of public view following a shooting incident that caused confusion inside the Senate complex.
PROSECUTORS ISSUE SUBPOENA IN SENATE INVESTIGATION
Meanwhile, a special panel of prosecutors has issued a subpoena to the Office of the Senate Secretary as part of an ongoing investigation into the May 13 incident inside the Senate.
According to Vida, investigators requested several records, including documents related to suspended acting Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca, inventories of Senate-owned firearms, issuance records, and security logs documenting entries and exits at the Senate premises.
The Commission on Audit and the Philippine National Police were also asked to provide records involving Senate firearm assets.
Investigators are also seeking documents related to the ownership of a 9mm CZ Scorpion Evo3 firearm that authorities believe may have been used during the incident.
DOJ WARNS AGAINST OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE
Vida warned that attempts to influence witnesses, mislead investigators, or delay legal proceedings may constitute obstruction of justice.
He added that public officials found liable for such violations could face penalties, including permanent disqualification from holding public office.
Background: ICC warrant against Dela Rosa
Dela Rosa, former chief of the Philippine National Police and a key figure in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, has been linked to an ICC investigation involving alleged crimes against humanity during the government’s war on drugs.
The ICC has reportedly issued an arrest warrant related to the case, which Philippine authorities have described as valid.