The Department of Justice (DOJ) is investigating whether the events at the Senate around May 13 are connected to Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s escape from protective custody in the early hours of May 14. DOJ officials say the investigation focuses on any role by public officials and whether there was a coordinated “plan” related to his disappearance from custody after he was placed under protection. Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida has said prosecutors are reviewing accounts gathered by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), statements from media practitioners, and CCTV footage.
Reports describe that the DOJ is examining circumstances surrounding the May 13 Senate shooting, including claims that sniper shots were fired from the fifth floor of the Senate building toward an identifiable NBI vehicle parked in the GSIS area. Investigators are determining how the shooting may relate to the security procedures in place for dela Rosa and whether it affected or enabled his escape. The DOJ also considers whether potential criminal charges may be filed against relevant officials depending on the findings and whether evidence supports a link between the shooting incident and the custody breach.
