The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) has firmly denied rumors that it is harboring Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, who is facing charges related to the previous administration's anti-drug campaign.
In a statement, the MNLF-Sema faction, led by Chairman Muslimin Sema, a former mayor of Cotabato City and ex-labor minister for the Bangsamoro Transition Authority, asserted that reports of their involvement in protecting Dela Rosa are mere speculation, not factual claims.
Senator Dela Rosa is currently implicated in crimes against humanity linked to the controversial drug war initiated during the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte. Additionally, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced a reward of 50 million pesos for information leading to Dela Rosa's arrest.
The MNLF-Sema faction emphasized that while there may have been past interactions between their founding figure Nur Misuari and the former president, this does not constitute a basis for claims of sheltering Dela Rosa.
In response to these developments, the Philippine National Police (PNP) stated that it will execute any court orders related to Senator Dela Rosa's case, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are also ready to assist in law enforcement activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations is Senator Ronald Dela Rosa facing?
Senator Ronald Dela Rosa is facing charges related to crimes against humanity in connection with the anti-drug campaign of the previous Duterte administration.
What did the MNLF-Sema faction say about its ties to Dela Rosa?
The MNLF-Sema faction categorically denied protecting Senator Dela Rosa, describing such claims as speculation and not based on confirmed facts.
What is the government's position on the arrest of Dela Rosa?
The Philippine National Police has stated it will enforce any court orders against Senator Dela Rosa, with support from the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Reporting by Ashley Romero for Rapport Philippines. This report was prepared from available source material and reviewed for factual consistency. Further verified updates will be added as the newsroom receives them.