Bond paid for release of ‘Tondo 3’ in time for Christmas

MANILA, Philippines — Karapatan-Kapatid human rights network on Thursday posted a surety bond for releasing activist Reina Mae Nasino, who lost her 3-month-old baby while in detention in 2020, and two of her colleagues in time for Christmas.

Karapatan-Kapatid paid P282,000, which was the premium of the bail set for Nasino, Alma Moran, and Ram Carlo Bautista’s release, as the group said it was impossible to raise the entire bail amount of P1.14 million before December 25.

“We decided to pay a premium % as it’s impossible to raise the entire amount of 1,140,000 before Christmas Day. What’s important is to bring them home before Christmas Day,” the network said.

“The court order for their release on bail and recognizance should now follow for implementation. We thus expect the jailed activists to step out of jail before Christmas Day,” they added.

Karapatan-Kapatid expressed gratitude to those who helped raise funds for the bail to free the activists, “even if only temporary.”

The network was referring to the fundraising drive launched by activists to help bail out three detained colleagues.

Lawyers for the three activists also asked the Manila judge who granted their bail petition to consider halving the bail amounts, noting that it might be impossible for their families to raise the money.

READ: A call for mercy: Lawyers plead with court for reduced bail for 3 detained activists 

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