MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said on Wednesday that the release of former Senator Leila de Lima on bail was a “notable development” after she spent almost seven years detained.
“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,” the CHR said in its statement.
On Monday, the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court under Presiding Judge Gener M. Gito allowed De Lima to post a P300,000 bail for her last drug case.
The CHR then emphasized Filipinos should have a fair and speedy trial and are entitled to the equal protection of laws, according to the constitution.
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“Just as the Commission always stands for the rights and dignity of all, we take this moment to similarly stress that every Filipino is entitled to a fair trial and speedy disposition of cases, as well as to the equal protection of laws, as guaranteed in the 1987 Philippine Constitution,” it said.
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The CHR likewise also urged the government to review cases of other persons deprived of liberty, regardless of their status.
“As such, we urge the Philippine government for the timely review of cases of other persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who have been awaiting resolution of their cases, regardless of their status, gender, and political affiliation among others, ” the CHR added.
The commission also added that it will continue monitoring De Lima’s case.
“CHR shall continue to monitor the case of former Senator de Lima,” it concluded.