Remulla warns arrest operation against Dela Rosa could turn deadly as negotiations continue

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 19, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Rappler

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla has warned that an operation to arrest Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa could result in a bloody confrontation, saying authorities are pursuing negotiations to secure the senator’s turnover instead.

Remulla confirmed on Monday that Dela Rosa is in Mindanao and that the government has a general idea of his whereabouts. He declined to disclose the senator’s exact location, citing the need to protect the ongoing operation.

The DILG chief said authorities prefer a negotiated surrender over a forceful arrest that could put the lives of law enforcement personnel and others at risk.

“We are negotiating for his turnover,” Remulla said, warning that a more aggressive approach could result in casualties.

He also stressed that the government remains engaged in efforts to take Dela Rosa into custody, while emphasizing the dangers of launching a full-scale operation.

Dela Rosa is wanted in connection with an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the Duterte administration’s war on drugs. He has not publicly appeared for Senate sessions for months as authorities continue efforts to locate him.

The senator has denied wrongdoing and questioned the ICC’s jurisdiction over the Philippines, which withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019.

Remulla’s latest remarks come amid continuing questions over how Philippine authorities will enforce the warrant while preventing another potentially violent standoff.

The government has yet to announce a timeline for Dela Rosa’s turnover or provide further details about the ongoing negotiations.