Pimentel: De Lima to get nod of CA this time around

Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — After failing to get the nod of Congress for over three years, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima could expect to be confirmed at last, Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III said on Sunday.

Pimentel, chairman of the Senate committee on justice, said he put De Lima’s confirmation on the agenda of the Commission on Appointments before Congress’ Lenten break starting March 15.

The feisty De Lima, who might have ruffled the feathers of some lawmakers with her statements and resolve to pursue cases against them, has been bypassed many times by the powerful body.

“I’m confident Justice Secretary Leila de Lima will pass through it,” Pimentel, who has received all the documentary requirements from the secretary for the confirmation proceedings, said on dzBB radio.

But even if someone should invoke Section 20 of the CA rules to suspend consideration of her appointment at the last minute, De Lima would be reappointed “as long as she enjoys the trust and confidence” of the President, Pimentel said.