AFP ready to support PNP in arresting Dela Rosa; says no major threat group capable of resisting operations

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday, Oct. 27, expressed readiness to assist the Philippine National Police (PNP) in arresting Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, saying no insurgent group remains capable of carrying out major atrocities in the country that could pose a significant challenge to government operations. AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the military would provide support if requested by the police, including intelligence gathering and operational assistance when warranted by the situation. “Since this is a law enforcement operation, the Philippine National Police is the front line in this issue. Nonetheless, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, whenever there is a request for our assistance, responds to it,” Padilla said. Padilla said the military was prepared to perform its role within the bounds of its mandate and existing laws. She stressed, however, that operational planning and execution would depend on the requirements of the mission. “Whatever role the Armed Forces of the Philippines can perform, we are very willing to assist, from intelligence gathering to operations where our presence is required by our mandate,” she noted. Dela Rosa is being sought in connection with an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant over the previous administration's war on drugs. A P50-million reward has also been offered for information leading to his arrest. However, questions have been raised about the security risks of serving the warrant, following remarks made by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Sec. Jonvic Remulla suggesting that thousands of people could die in an operation to apprehend the senator. Asked whether the AFP has identified any armed group capable of mounting significant resistance to a government operation, Padilla said such scenarios remained speculative. She cited the military's reports of declining insurgent numbers and the government's continuing declaration of areas as...