Dela Rosa says US Embassy cancelled his visa a day before birthday

January 22, 2020

Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa on Wednesday was saddened by the cancellation of his visa to the United States.


In an interview with reporters, Dela Rosa said he received the news from the US Embassy in the Philippine a day before his birthday.


“I sent an official letter to the US embassy inquiring from them if really my visa was cancelled. I received their official answer the day before my birthday, January 20,” he said.


“What a good birthday gift informing me that my visa is no longer valid for travel to United States,” he added.


Dela Rosa said the embassy did not explain to him why his visa was cancelled but he said there is a possibility it is due to the government’s campaign against illegal drugs when he was chief of the Philippine National Police.


He is the first PNP chief under the Duterte administration.


Dela Rosa said the embassy told him he can re-apply for a visa but it will be subject to US’ rules and regulations.


“Should I want to apply for another visa, I may apply subject to US rules and regulations,” he said.


“No reason was stated… no official reason but it could be related to (campaign on illegal drugs,” he added.


Dela Rosa said he is regretful that he cannot visit the said country however he said he may re-apply if Duterte will asked for his company “if ever” he will decided to accept Trump’s invitation for US-ASEAN meeting in Las Vegas on March.


Asked if he still wants to go back, he said “yes, if they give me back my visa”.


In an interview last December, Dela Rosa said he heard rumors that his visa was cancelled prompting him to write and asked the embassy.


“That is only a privilege,” he said. “If I cannot enter anymore at least I get to taste America,” he said. Ella Dionisio/DMS