After almost seven years, former Senator Leila de Lima was released from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City this Monday night after she posted bail.
“Precious freedom! Free at last! Pinakahihintay ko sa buhay ko for more than six years. Ito na, dumating na po. Maraming salamat,” de Lima told reporters after leaving Camp Crame at 7:03 p.m.
Earlier, the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 206 upheld the former senator’s motion to reconsider its earlier decision and allowed bail of P300,000 for his remaining one case related to illegal drugs.
The court also allowed de Lima’s other co-accused former Corrections Director Franklin Bucayu, Ronnie Dayan, Joenel Sanchez, and Jad Dera to post bail of P300,000 each.
Before being released on bail, the former lawmaker briefly stepped out of the Custodial Center this Monday afternoon to show herself to journalists outside the camp.
“I’m free. Salamat, sa wakas, malaya na po ako… after 2,424 days. I am now free. Sweet, sweet freedom. Thank you, Lord. Thank you, everyone,” said de Lima.
Leila de Lima released after posting bail of P300K
After the court hearing, De Lima’s satisfaction could be seen when she left the Muntinlupa City Hall of Justice.
“Sa wakas makakalaya na po ako. For years, years, my whole being has been crying out for justice and freedom. For six long years, praying, praying so hard for this day to come,” she said.
De Lima’s allies celebrated the court’s decision.
“The decision…is a step toward justice and freedom for Leila and a harsh indictment of those who falsely accused her of wrongdoing and caused her years of unimaginable suffering in solitary confinement and the indescribable anguish of the malevolently accused,” said Albay Representative Edcel Lagman.
Former Vice President Leni Robredo said that the court’s decision is proof that the truth will come out.
“Ang lahat ng mga paninira at panggigipit na naranasan niya sa loob ng halos pitong taon ay bunga ng kaniyang pangangahas na tumindig para sa tama—para sa ating mga kababayan. Masaya ako na sa wakas ay namayani ang hustisya at makakapiling na natin nang malaya si Senator Leila,” she said.
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