DOJ issues subpoena to Padilla

A subpoena was issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) against Sen. Robin Padilla and several others in connection with their alleged hand in facilitating the escape of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa following the issuance of an arrest warrant against him.

The summon was issued after the DOJ has finished its evaluation of the complaint and will now proceed with a formal preliminary investigation into the allegations.

Senator Robin Padilla and the other respondents have been ordered to appear before the Department of Justice (DOJ) panel of prosecutors on 25 September 25 and 9 October 2026, to submit their counter-affidavits and supporting documents.

The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) filed the complaint against Padilla, Lt. Col. Jean Alia Yasin Robles, Virgilio Palaganas Carino Jr., and four John Does for alleged obstruction of the apprehension and prosecution of criminal offenders.

The complaint stemmed from allegations that the respondents helped former Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa evade arrest after the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest over the Duterte administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign.

The DOJ earlier returned the complaint to the CIDG for further investigation after prosecutors sought additional evidence and statements from individuals concerned.

Justice Undersecretary Ian Norman Dato earlier said the case was being handled under DOJ Department Circular No. 20, which provides for coordination and information exchange between prosecutors and law enforcement agencies before a complaint proceeds to preliminary investigation.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida also confirmed that the complaint had been returned to the CIDG under the same procedure.

With subpoenas now issued, Padilla and the other respondents will have the opportunity to answer the allegations as the DOJ begins the formal preliminary investigation.