12/05/2026
**DRILON: NO โPROTECTIVE CUSTODYโ FOR SENATORS**
May 12, 2026
Former Senate President Franklin Drilon says there is no legal basis for so-called โprotective custodyโ for a senator to avoid possible arrest.
According to Drilon, nothing in the Rules of Court or existing laws grants a privilege allowing a senator, such as Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, to be placed under protective custody to prevent arrest.
He said the only exemption from arrest applies to cases where the penalty does not exceed six years in prison โ and only while Congress is in session.
Drilon also clarified that in cases where a warrant is not immediately served within the Senate premises, it is not because the law prohibits it, but merely due to โinstitutional courtesyโ or respect for Congress as an institution.