NBI Director Melvin Matibag and Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa (Photos by Norman Cruz / Senate of the Philippines)
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is currently validating reports regarding the alleged protection of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members for fugitive Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, NBI Director Melvin Matibag said Wednesday.
In a report by Bilyonaryo News Channel, Matibag visited General Santos City on Tuesday to meet with governors and officials of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and seek assistance in locating dela Rosa and other fugitives.
According to the NBI chief, local government officials categorically denied allegations that their territories were being used to hide fugitives, but the bureau would still verify the information.
“Well, some reports like that have surfaced, and there was a categorical denial from the local government units in Mindanao. They will not coddle fugitives. But of course, we will also validate the information. It is possible that they are not being seen or something, but we are conducting checks,” Matibag said.
The officials assured the NBI of their cooperation in the manhunt and said they would not allow their territories to become hiding places for fugitives, including dela Rosa.
“They are committed to helping us and providing information if Senator Bato is indeed there. They also made a commitment that the BARMM area, Mindanao and the other governors will not allow their territories to become hiding places for fugitives from justice, those we are looking for, including Senator Bato,” he said.
Matibag earlier said the bureau had received numerous reports about dela Rosa’s possible whereabouts in Mindanao and other areas. The reports undergo validation and cross-validation before the NBI takes the necessary law enforcement action.
The NBI has continued its intensified efforts to locate dela Rosa following the issuance of a warrant of arrest against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC).