PNP Denies ‘Shoot-to-Kill’ Order Against Senator Dela Rosa

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has confirmed that there will be no 'shoot-to-kill' tactics employed in executing an arrest warrant for Senator Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa. This statement was made by PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. amid false claims circulating on social media regarding a supposed shoot-to-kill directive directed at the senator.

Nartatez emphasized that the PNP's operations will adhere strictly to legal standards and due process, stating, 'The role of the PNP is to enforce the law, not to act outside of it.' He highlighted the importance of respecting human rights and due process in all police operations, and reiterated the necessity for discipline and professionalism in law enforcement.

The PNP's assurance comes after Representative Lordan Suan from Cagayan de Oro's 1st District denied any connection to the misleading social media posts that suggested he advocated for a shoot-to-kill policy regarding Dela Rosa. Suan insists that such claims are entirely fabricated and he has not made any such statements.

Senator Dela Rosa faces an arrest warrant related to charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC). The Department of Justice and the Office of the Solicitor General have also classified him as a fugitive, with a reward of P50 million for his capture. A week-long deadline for the senator to surrender expired on October 30, and police units have been directed to gather intelligence and monitor his whereabouts.

Reporting by Jeff Malate 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.