Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa is still believed to be in the Philippines, his lawyer said, even as questions persist over his whereabouts following his departure from the Senate last month.

In an interview with DZRH News, lawyer Israelito Torreon said he is certain his client remains in the country, citing their last conversation before the senator left the Senate premises on May 14, as reported by RH Jecelle Ricafort.

“Sigurado ako nasa Pilipinas siya. As for his whereabouts, I really do not have any idea,” Torreon said.

Torreon said dela Rosa himself confirmed that he had not left the country, but the lawyer admitted he does not know the senator’s exact location or whether he is currently in Davao.

The senator is being sought by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.

However, Torreon reiterated that his client does not intend to surrender, emphasizing that no case has been filed against dela Rosa in Philippine courts.

“Bakit siya susuko, wala naman siyang kaso dito sa Pilipinas?” Torreon said.

He added that their camp does not recognize the ICC’s arrest warrant, maintaining that the court has no jurisdiction over the country.

Torreon, however, said dela Rosa is prepared to face any charges if a case is filed locally.

“I did not say he will not surrender. In the first place, there is no case here. File a case in the Philippines and we will face it, I promise,” he said.

Dela Rosa, a former national police chief, has been linked to the government’s anti-drug campaign, which has drawn international scrutiny over alleged human rights violations.