CHR hails release of de Lima; urges impartial process of other PDLs

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Wednesday the release of its former commissioner and former senator Leila de Lima on bail highlights the importance of the right to a fair and speedy trial. (File Photo: Leila de Lima/Facebook)

MANILA – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Wednesday the release of its former commissioner and former senator Leila de Lima on bail highlights the importance of the right to a fair and speedy trial.

“The CHR recognizes the just and timely decision of Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 206 in this regard,” the commission said in a statement.

While the country’s independent national human rights institution hailed the decision of the court, the commission also called for the timely review of cases of other persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who have been awaiting resolutions.

“Similarly, we underscore the role of an independent judiciary in ensuring an impartial and transparent process for every aggrieved and accused of a crime,” it said.

In 2017, three drug charges were filed against de Lima for her alleged involvement in drugs and for letting the drug trade take place inside the New Bilibid Prison.

She was acquitted from the first drug charge in 2021, and the second in May 2023.

She received the decision on her bail application after almost seven years in detention.

The commission also reiterated its call to ensure that the crucial role of due process and the rule of law in protecting human rights, as well as in providing appropriate remedies and reparation in instances of human rights abuse and violations, are always observed.

At the same time, the CHR said it remains committed to upholding the rights of all PDLs – decongestion and human rights conditions in places of deprivation of liberty and helping the State comply with its human rights obligations – through partnerships with relevant government agencies.