Gunfire at Senate as authorities reportedly move to serve Dela Rosa ICC warrant

Cover image courtesy: PNA

PASAY CITY — Chaos broke out inside the Senate building this evening as authorities moved to arrest Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who has remained within the premises since Monday following the unsealing of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest order.

Several gunshots were reported at approximately 7:46 p.m. on the second floor of the building amidst a heavy law enforcement presence. Shortly before the discharge of firearms, uniformed personnel equipped with long firearms and helmets were observed in discussion with Senate security near the elevator area. These individuals declined to provide statements to the media.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla arrived at the scene at around 8:30 p.m. to coordinate the safety of the senators and staff. “We do not know who are the perpetrators,” Remulla stated, clarifying that his presence was intended to secure the building rather than to execute the arrest of Senator dela Rosa. No casualties have been reported thus far.

Earlier, Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano issued instructions via a Facebook video message for the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms to grant Secretary Remulla entry to the complex.

The ICC unsealed the arrest warrant against the former Philippine National Police chief on 11 May 2026, citing alleged crimes against humanity associated with the Duterte administration’s drug war. Dela Rosa has remained at the Senate as authorities sought to serve the warrant, following a decision by the Supreme Court not to issue the temporary restraining order he had sought against the ICC's action.