The Great Senate Escape

Late Wednesday, gunshots rang out inside the Philippine Senate where a politician wanted by the International Criminal Court was hiding out. 

Senator “Bato” dela Rosa took refuge in the Senate Monday after the ICC unsealed a warrant for his arrest on suspicion of crimes against humanity. Dela Rosa was national police chief under former Philippine President Duterte, enforcing anti-drug efforts that killed thousands. Duterte was arrested in March 2025 and faces a trial for the killings carried out by his administration.

Wednesday evening, dela Rosa went live on Facebook, asking the public to prevent authorities from arresting him. Gunfire erupted shortly after, and dela Rosa fled amid the chaos; his whereabouts are currently unknown.

Officials say nobody was hurt and they’ve identified a suspected shooter: a driver associated with the country’s National Bureau of Investigation.

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A verse to consider when headlines about crime and corruption weigh on you… “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” 
Psalm 23:4 (CSB) (read full passage)