Manila, Philippines — The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) has denied speculation that it is sheltering Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
In a statement dated October 30, the MNLF said reports linking it to Dela Rosa stemmed from speculation that he may be hiding with a powerful armed group in Mindanao.
The group clarified that Dela Rosa’s past remarks and involvement in programs for former combatants do not establish any personal or organizational ties with the MNLF.
It acknowledged that Dela Rosa has connections with people associated with the group, particularly through former President Rodrigo Duterte’s relationship with MNLF founder Nur Misuari.
However, it stressed that there is no verified evidence that the senator is an MNLF member, operational ally, or currently under its protection.
The speculation comes after the International Criminal Court publicized an arrest warrant against Dela Rosa on May 11 over his alleged role in the war on drugs during his time as Philippine National Police chief under Duterte.
Days later, he left the Senate premises and has not been seen in public since.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government has declared Dela Rosa “armed and dangerous,” while a 50-million-peso reward has been offered for his arrest.