By Lane Afable, News Editor
A ranking official of the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association, Inc. (PMAAAI) on Thursday called on its members to remain “calm and non-partisan” amid the impending arrest of one of its members, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for being a co-conspirator in alleged crimes against humanity.
“As Chairman and CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of the PMAAAI, I respectfully call on our members to remain united, calm, circumspect, and non-partisan amid the ongoing public discussions involving fellow Cavalier Senator Ronald dela Rosa,” PMAAAI chair Ricardo David, a member of PMA Class of 1977, said in the group’s Facebook Page.
Incidentally, dela Rosa is a member of the PMA Class of 1986.
The senator earlier appealed for help among his fellow PMAers amid an attempt to arrest and transport him to the ICC headquarters in the Netherlands.
David said, “We recognize that among Cavaliers there may be differing views and perspectives on the matter, including those who may stand on different sides of the issue in the performance of their respective duties and convictions.”
However, he said the PMAAAI remains guided by the principles of justice, due process, respect for the rule of law, and the independence of Philippine institutions.
“At this time, let us uphold the values that bind us together-honor, integrity, professionalism, and unity-while avoiding divisive rhetoric, personal attacks, and premature judgment. Our brotherhood must remain stronger than our differences. Let us continue to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the PMA ideals we have sworn to uphold,” he added.
Earlier, the ICC confirmed that the warrant of arrest against dela Rosa, which circulated in the media, “is indeed a formal ICC document.”
The ICC unsealed and formally classified the document as “public” on May 11.
After a six-month absence, dela Rosa surfaced and sought refuge at the Senate on Monday.
Tension gripped the Senate after a shooting transpired on Wednesday night, and hours later, news swirled that dela Rosa had left the building.
