Statement of the Commission on Human Rights welcoming the court’s decision to dismiss the final drug case of former CHR Chairperson and Senator Leila de Lima
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) applauds Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 206’s decision to acquit and grant “demurrer to evidence,” declaring former CHR Chairperson and Senator Leila de Lima not guilty and effectively dismissing her third and final drug case. In the court decision, Muntinlupa City RTC Branch 206 granted the demurrer […]
Statement of the Commission on Human Rights on the release of former Senator Leila de Lima on bail
The release of the former Chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and former Senator Leila de Lima through bail is a notable development after almost seven years in detention. The CHR welcomes this development as it highlights the importance of the right to a fair and speedy trial. To recall, three drug charges […]
Statement of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcoming the acquittal of former CHR Chairperson and Senator Leila de Lima
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes the verdict of the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch (RTC) 256 to acquit former CHR Chairperson and Senator Leila de Lima on her second drug case. In his ruling, Muntinlupa RTC Judge Abraham Alcantara explained that the recantation of former Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) officer-in-charge Rafael Ragos shrouded […]
Statement of the Commission on Human Rights expressing grave concern on the reported hostage incident involving former Senator Leila De Lima
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is gravely concerned on the reported incident of former CHR Chair and Senator Leila De Lima being held hostage today, 9 October 2022, at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center by three other detainees. While initial information reaching CHR share that Senator De Lima is now safe, it […]
Statement of CHR Executive Director, Atty Jacqueline Ann de Guia, on the dismissal of bribery complaints against former Senator Leila de Lima
The Office of the Ombudsman, last 9 August 2022, issued a nine-page resolution ordering the dismissal of direct and indirect bribery complaints against former Senator Leila de Lima and her former bodyguard Ronnie Dayan. Clarifying the ruling, prosecutor Daniel Von Evan Panelo stated that the testimonies presented were inconsistent and, on several points, contradictory. Such, […]
Statement of CHR spokesperson, Atty Jacqueline Ann de Guia, on the treatment of Senator Leila M de Lima
Presumption of innocence and equal protection of the laws are constitutionally guaranteed rights. It is upon the government to ensure that all citizens—regardless of gender, economic status, religion, or political affiliation—enjoy these safeguards against injustices and assaults to human dignity. As such, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) calls out the Philippine National Police in […]
Statement of the Commission on Human Rights on Senator Leila M. de Lima’s first year in detention
Last 24 February 2018, Senator Leila M. de Lima marked her first year in detention. From trading illegal drugs under Section 5 of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165), the Department of Justice wants to charge her now with “attempt or conspiracy” to trade illegal drugs under Section 26(b) of the same law.