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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider No show, no problem? Bato files 2 bills despite months-long absence

No show, no problem? Bato files 2 bills despite months-long absence

Published May 7, 2026 10:43 am

At A Glance

  • Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa filed two bills despite being absent from Senate sessions since November 2025, including a proposed "Counter Foreign Interference Act" seeking life imprisonment for foreign interference offenses.
  • Dela Rosa has yet to physically return to the Senate following reports of a possible International Criminal Court warrant tied to his drug war case, while an ethics complaint against him remains pending.
  • Senator JV Ejercito said dela Rosa was asked to comment on the ethics complaint and consider waiving his salary and allowances during his continued absence.
Despite being absent from Senate sessions since November 2025 and a pending ethics complaint, Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa has managed to file two bills, including a measure that seeks to penalize foreign interference in the Philippines with life imprisonment.
Senator Ronald
Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa (Senate PRIB photo)
Dela Rosa has yet to make a physical appearance in the Senate since the alleged issuance of a warrant of arrest against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
His bills were filed through his legislative staff.
During Wednesday’s session, May 6, Senate Bill 2080, or the proposed "Counter Foreign Interference Act," was referred to the Committees on National Defense and Security and Justice and Human Rights.
Meanwhile, his other filed measure, Senate Bill 2079, was routed to the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs.
The Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, chaired by Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, has asked dela Rosa to formally comment on the ethics complaint that was filed against him.
Earlier, Ejercito said they have asked the senator to consider waiving his salary and allowances. He said there is a possibility that the ethics complaint against him would be dismissed if he does so.
Ejercito also disclosed dela Rosa's camp is considering the suggestion that he temporarily stop receiving his salary and allowances while he remains absent from the Senate.

Related Tags

Bato Dela Rosa International Criminal Court ethics complaint foreign interference
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