Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 12) – Foreign ambassadors to the Philippines and officials have joined the call for a speedy resolution in the final drug case of detained former Senator Leila de Lima after she was acquitted in one of two remaining drug cases on Friday.
READ: Muntinlupa court acquits De Lima in 2nd drug case
Hannah Neumann, a member of the European parliament, celebrated the decision. “Great news! Leila de Lima is one step closer to freedom after 6 years of politically motivated detention. So far, each and every made-up case collapsed. I hope to see you out of jail soon, @AttyLeiladeLima.\”
De Lima, a vocal critic of the Duterte administration, has been detained since February 2017 for alleged involvement in the drug trade in the New Bilibid Prison when she was justice secretary. She allegedly used drug money to fund her 2016 Senate bid. The former lawmaker has denied these allegations.
In 2021, Muntinlupa RTC 205 dismissed the first drug case against her. The new acquittal is by the Muntinlupa RTC 204.
De Lima cannot yet be released as she is waiting Muntinlupa RTC 256 for its decision to allow her to post bail. Her final drug case is pending with this court.
Danish Ambassador the Philippines Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin said the cases against De Lima were concerning.
“Happy for the acquittal of @AttyLeiladeLima in a case that has drawn grave concerns from its very start. Hope for a positive bail decision following six years of detainment and two acquittals as well as a speedy process in the last case,” Mellbin said.
Other envoys emphasized the need for rule of law in a functioning democracy.
“I welcome the progress made by the court’s decision. The rule of law is essential for a functioning democracy & important for further strengthening Philippine-German relations,” German Ambassador to the Philippines Anke Reiffenstuel said Friday. “Germany will continue to follow the remaining case in which Leila de Lima filed a petition for bail.”
Ambassador of the European Union to the Philippines Luc Veron congratulated De Lima on her 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.”
