Show proof of Bato warrant, Jonvic dares Trillanes

MANILA, Philippines — Former senator Antonio Trillanes IV should show proof that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued a warrant of arrest for Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla dared yesterday.

Remulla posed the challenge in response to Trillanes’ assertion that he should reduce his media interviews and focus on manhunt operations against wanted persons.

“I can’t understand senator Trillanes… that we should search for Bato. What would we search for?” Remulla said over ANC.

“We know he is in Davao, but there is no warrant of arrest, so why would we locate him?” Remulla added.

The interior chief challenged Trillanes to show proof that the ICC already has a warrant out for Dela Rosa and he will arrest the retired police general.

“If senator Trillanes can prove one, I will personally go to Davao and get Bato,” Remulla said.

Based on the information they have been receiving, Remulla said Dela Rosa is moving around Davao City on a motorcycle, usually with two companions.

Dela Rosa is allegedly staying with his trusted associates and has brought with him his entire family, abandoning his properties in Silang, Cavite.

Remulla said Trillanes could conduct a citizen’s arrest on Dela Rosa if he wants the former Philippine National Police chief in custody. — Helen Flores