De Lima will stay, says Malacañang

Department of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima (Chari Villegas / Senate Pool)

MANILA – Malacañang on Tuesday said that Justice Secretary Leila de Lima will not leave her position and that the government will pursue its investigation on the complaint filed against the leaders of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC).

“There is an information or a complaint. There is a process for that. Those who filed that [complaint] can continue to provide information and evidence and let the truth set us free,” said Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. before the press.

Stressing De Lima’s statement, he said that the rule of law would be implemented still.

Last Tuesday, the Justice Secretary reported for work setting the record straight regarding the rumors that she left her post as part of the agreement between the religious sect and the Palace, following the five-day protest of the INC.

“From what I know, there is no such deal. There is no such thing,” said De Lima referring to the alleged agreement between Malacañang and INC.

The Justice Secretary stressed that she would resign in “due time” and if she already decided whether or not to run for senatorial position next year.

“I will not resign now or in the next few days or several days because there is no reason why I should. I can’t see any reason why I should resign,” she said. “I will resign if I have really decided that I am 100-percent sure I will join the senatorial race. You know when that will be,” De Lima added.

INC ended its rally on Monday morning following the announcement of the Palace on Sunday night that President Aquino already had an emergency meeting with Cabinet officials. The President met with INC leaders headed by INC executive minister Eduardo Manalo to iron out the issue involving its ousted INC minister Isaias Samson Jr.

The protests of INC called for De Lima’s resignation, claiming that the Justice Secretary was intervening with the internal affairs of the sect.

The group occupied EDSA last August 28, causing heavy traffic jams.