The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) confirmed it has asked local authorities to monitor the whereabouts of Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa following reports that an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant may soon be issued.

“In light of reports that an ICC warrant is forthcoming, we just want to be steps ahead, and we just want to make sure that we know where Senator Dela Rosa is since he has not been seen in the Senate for some weeks now,” DILG Public Affairs Undersecretary Donnie Puno told reporters in an ambush interview at Camp Crame on Friday.

He clarified, however, that Dela Rosa is “not yet considered a fugitive” and that authorities are merely keeping track of his location.

Should the ICC issue a formal warrant, Puno said the Supreme Court is expected to allow the senator to seek legal remedies before local courts.

Asked whether enforcing a potential warrant against a former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief would pose challenges for law enforcement, Puno asserted that the institution is prepared to fulfill its mandate.

“I don't think so. The PNP are professionals. They have a sworn duty, and we are confident they’ll abide by that,” he said.