Bato no show in bicam

Senator Ronaldo "Bato" dela Rosa failed to show up in the bicameral conference committee meeting on the proposed P6.793-trillion budget on Saturday, 13 December, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay.

Dela Rosa has been absent in the Senate since 10 November amid the alleged issuance of an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court against him.

When asked about his absence, panel on finance chair Sen. Win Gatchalian said the former Philippine National Police head did not offer any explanation.

Dela Rosa was part of the 11-member panel of the Senate bicam.

As the vice chairperson of the finance committee, his inclusion in the panel was automatic following Senate tradition.

Also absent in the bicam were Senators JV Ejercito, Pia Cayetano, and Camille Villar.