CHR seeks swift decision on De Lima’s 3rd case

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said the acquittal of former Senator Leila M. de Lima on her second illegal drugs case “demonstrates the commitment of the judiciary to the rule of law and justice."

In a statement, the CHR expressed hopes for the swift decision by the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court (RTC) on De Lima’s third case, particularly on her plea to post bail.

De Lima has been detained since 2017 on three illegal drugs cases. She was indicted for the alleged proliferation of illegal drugs trading at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City when she was the Secretary of Justice.

She was acquitted on the first case in 2021 through a demurrer when she challenged that the prosecution’s evidence could not sustain her conviction. The RTC agreed and granted her demurrer. The grant was tantamount to acquittal.

The pendency of her third drugs case keeps De Lima in detention at the Custodial Center of the Philippine National Police in Quezon City.

Robredo hails acquittal

Former Vice President Leni Robredo and several ambassadors welcomed the acquittal of former Senator Leila de Lima from one of the two remaining drug charges against her.

In a statement, Robredo said she was one in celebrating the former senator’s acquittal by the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 204.

“Tagumpay ito ng katotohanan pagkatapos ng mahigit na anim na taon ng paninira at kasinungalingan laban kay Sen Leila, na ang tanging kasalanan lang ay ang matapang na pagtindig para sa tama (This is victory of the truth after more than six years of mudslinging and lies against Sen Leila whose only sin is to courageously stand for the truth),” she said.

“Ang pagbasura sa kasong ito, bunga ng kawalan ng kahit anumang ebidensiya laban sa kanya, ay malinaw na hakbang tungo sa araw na ito (The dismissal of this case, due to lack of any evidence against her, is a clear step toward this day),” Robredo, the chairperson of Angat Buhay, added.

Meanwhile, the international community also welcomed the court’s decision and underscored the importance of the rule of law in a democracy like the Philippines.’

“Congratulations @AttyLeiladeLima on your acquittal! It has been six long years but I share your happiness that the day has come. Everyone has the right to due process and justice,” European Union Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Veron said in a tweet.

German Ambassador to Manila Anke Reiffenstuel likewise highlighted how de Lima’s case benefited a “functioning democracy.”