Manila: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Sunday urged Senator Ronald dela Rosa to honor the badge and uniform he used to wear amid operations to track him down. In a statement, Nartatez emphasized the PNP's commitment to handling efforts to locate Dela Rosa with restraint and professionalism, underscoring the deep respect officers hold for the senator due to his years of service as the country's top cop.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PNP is actively coordinating with other law enforcement units to monitor Dela Rosa's whereabouts following his arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). Nartatez appealed to Dela Rosa's enduring sense of duty as a lifelong law enforcer, urging him to ensure the legal process is resolved with dignity. Reports have indicated that the senator is considered "presumed armed and dangerous" due to his law enforcement background and firearm access.

The PNP has stressed that all actions must adhere to operational protocols and human rights standards. Nartatez has directed regional and local police units to exercise maximum restraint and avoid unnecessary escalation if officers encounter the senator. He highlighted Dela Rosa's understanding of the responsibilities tied to the uniform and the oath officers take to uphold the law. Nartatez called on Dela Rosa to honor the duty of current officers by cooperating fully with the process.

Dela Rosa is facing an arrest warrant for crimes against humanity related to the previous administration's anti-illegal drug campaign. He served as PNP chief under former President Rodrigo Duterte from 2016 to 2018 and was under Senate protective custody until he left the Senate premises around 2:30 a.m. on May 14.