The Philippine National Police (PNP) declined to give a categorical response on whether Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa could be placed under its custody at Camp Crame, following questions raised after reports of an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant against him.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the agency is withholding comment on the matter when asked by media if Dela Rosa may remain under police custody, stressing that no official position has been issued yet.

The development comes after Dela Rosa reportedly went missing from protective custody of the Senate, amid concerns that he could be subject to arrest under the alleged ICC warrant.

In an interview, suspended Senate Security Chief Mao Aplasca said he had heard that Dela Rosa personally spoke with PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., requesting to be placed under police custody.

Aplasca said the senator allegedly sought protection from the same institution he once led during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

However, when pressed for confirmation, Tuaño simply replied 'no comment,' avoiding further details on any possible arrangement involving the senator.

Questions from the media also centered on whether the PNP would recognize or act on the ICC warrant, and whether coordination with Interpol had already been established. Earlier, the PNP said it could not enforce the warrant without a formal court order for extradition and proper international coordination.

Despite the controversy, Gen. Nartatez separately assured the public that Dela Rosa’s former position as PNP chief would not affect how law enforcement agencies carry out their duties, emphasizing that procedures will be followed based on legal processes rather than personal affiliations.