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Politics2 similar reports mergedPadilla defends deputy chief of staff over alleged role in dela Rosa Senate escape
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Senator Robinhood Padilla publicly defended his deputy chief of staff, retired Colonel Jean Robles, against allegations that she helped Senator Ronald dela Rosa escape from the Senate on May 14, 2026, while he was under the chamber's 'protective custody.' The escape followed the issuance of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant for dela Rosa over his alleged involvement in the drug war campaign under former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is set to face ICC trial for crimes against humanity. Padilla stated that Robles merely performed her official duties and that no lawful order prevented anyone from leaving the Senate premises. He explained that around 2:30 a.m., Robles hitched a ride with him to her condominium for safety reasons during a lockdown situation. Padilla also dismissed any link between Robles and Duterte, noting her military and foreign service background. He asserted that Robles acted professionally and in good faith.
Source report
MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Robinhood Padilla has defended his deputy chief of staff, retired Colonel Jean Robles, against allegations linking her to the escape of Sen. Ronald dela Rosa from the Senate last week, despite dela Rosa being under the chamber's "protective custody."
In a statement on Monday, Padilla said "any insinuation that she acted improperly or illegally is unfair, speculative, and irresponsible."
Background of the Incident
On May 14, Padilla allegedly helped dela Rosa slip out of the Senate following the issuance of a warrant of arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The warrant relates to dela Rosa's alleged involvement in the drug campaign under the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who will face trial before the ICC in The Hague, Netherlands, on charges of crimes against humanity.
Padilla's Statement
"[Retired] Colonel Jean Robles merely performed her official duties as part of my staff during the events that transpired inside the Senate," Padilla said.
"There was no lawful order preventing anyone from leaving the Senate premises at that time. No law enforcement officer stopped, restrained, or prohibited our movements," he added.
"Unfortunately, we were held in a lockdown situation inside the Senate premises, and some staff members stayed as part of operational and security coordination," Padilla said.
Details of the Incident
Padilla explained that at approximately 2:30 a.m. on May 14, Robles hitched a ride with him, and he brought her to her condominium out of concern for her safety.
Robles' Background
Padilla also dismissed any link between Robles and the former president. He said Robles "never personally served" Duterte nor was she part of his personal staff.
According to Padilla, Robles served the Filipino people as an Army officer from 2002 until 2020, before later entering the Department of Foreign Affairs as a foreign service officer.
Conclusion
Padilla said Robles "acted professionally, in good faith, and within the scope of her responsibilities as [my] deputy chief of staff."
Source
https://www.manilatimes.netRegional
Part of this Story
Philippine Senator Dela Rosa Evades ICC Arrest Warrant in Senate Standoff