The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said it has obtained a new and “promising” lead on the possible whereabouts of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

According to NBI Director Melvin Matibag, the bureau is pursuing fresh information that could help locate the senator, adding that investigators remain focused despite political developments in the Senate, as reported by Jecelle Ricafort.

Matibag stressed that the agency is not being distracted by political noise, saying the NBI has intensified its manhunt operations to locate and hold dela Rosa accountable under the law.

He also said investigators believe someone may be helping the senator evade authorities, citing what he described as the lawmaker’s extensive network of contacts.

Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief and incumbent senator, is being sought by authorities following a shooting incident inside the Senate on the morning of May 14.

Matibag acknowledged that the senator’s background in law enforcement and current position in Congress present challenges in tracking him down, but said the bureau’s investigation will continue until all leads are exhausted.