MANILA, Philippines?Senator Antonio Trillanes IV welcomed the court?s granting of temporary liberty for him and 17 other soldiers over rebellion charges, saying the move ?proves that there are still bright spots in the judiciary.?

And although Trillanes would have to stay detained over the 2003 mutiny case, he said he was ?very happy for my companions as their long awaited freedom is finally at hand.?

?More importantly, this is a victory for our justice system. I thank Judge Elmo Alameda for displaying fairness and impartiality in his decision to grant bail,? Trillanes said in a handwritten statement provided to media at Camp Crame.

Trillanes and the 17 other soldiers are presently detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Alan Tanjusay, spokesman of the Magdalo group, said the atmosphere inside the detention center was ?upbeat? and ?positive.?

?The mood was festive and upbeat. Normally [the detainees] are low in morale but this time their very positive,? Tanjusay told reporters.

Over lunch of rice, menudo and sisig, the detained soldiers talked about their future plans.

?They are looking forward to their freedom,? Tanjusay said.