CHR lauds de Lima’s acquittal, hopes for speedy resolution of her last case

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Saturday welcomed the acquittal of former Senator Leila de Lima in one of her drug cases, adding that it hopes for a fast resolution of her last case.

De Lima was acquitted by Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Judge Abraham Alcantara on the grounds of reasonable doubt being cast on the case after former Bureau of Corrections officer-in-charge Rafael Ragos recanted his testimonies.

READ: Leila de Lima acquitted in 2nd drug case

“CHR welcomes the progress on the case as it demonstrates the commitment of the judiciary to the rule of law and justice. In light of this development that upholds the innocence of former Senator de Lima on two out of three drug cases, the Commission equally hopes for the swift decision of the Court on the application of bail on her remaining case,” said the CHR in a statement.

According to the CHR, de Lima’s six-year-long incarceration goes against the United Nations Basic Principles for the Treatment of Prisoners, that prisoners must still be able to have the freedoms prescribed in the  Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“It cannot be ignored that former senator de Lima has been in pre-trial detention for more than six years with no conviction. Languishing in jail due to previous considerable delays and numerous limbo in trial is tantamount to the deprivation of guaranteed human rights,” said the CHR.

The CHR then emphasized the importance of having a timely, fair trial and presuming the innocence of all accused until the resolution of their cases.

“It is crucial to consistently uphold the right to a speedy and fair trial for all accused. Further, we urge that the right to be presumed innocent is applied extensively and consistently to all persons awaiting resolution of their cases, regardless of their socio-economic background, political affiliation, or status,” the CHR added.

The Commission also reiterated that it supports the right to combat illegal drugs but it should be done without compromising human rights.

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