Detained Senator Leila de Lima thanked Vice President Leni Robredo for visiting her at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame on June 10.
De Lima has been detained at Camp Crame for more than five years due to her cases in Muntinlupa courts filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in February 2017. A Muntinlupa court issued a warrant of arrest that placed her under PNP custody.
“Extremely delighted by VP Leni’s visit today here in the PNP Custodial Center. We had a marvelous time sharing stories and insights,” De Lima said in a statement.
According to De Lima, she and Robredo “talked about the very inspiring people’s campaign of Team #LeniKiko, Jillian's graduation and her recent US trip with her daughters, and the upcoming launching of the Angat Buhay NGO.”
“We also touched on the recent positive developments in my cases,” she said, referring to the recantation of several individuals including former Bureau of Corrections officer-in-charge Rafael Ragos and Kerwin Espinosa.
De Lima added, “Talagang nakatataba at nakagagalak ng puso na makasama at makausap si VP Leni. Walang mababakas na sama ng loob, kundi katatagan at kapanatagan. Isang kaibigan at kapwa lingkod bayan na kailanman ay hindi nakalimot, kasamang nanindigan, at sa kabila ng lahat, sa kahit anumang pagkakataon, walang dalawang-isip na inaalay ang sarili para sa Pilipino at sa Pilipinas. (It is really heartwarming to be with and to talk to VP Leni. No trace of grudge, but only stability and peace. A friend and public servant who has never forgotten, stood up and despite it all, anytime, does not have second thoughts to offer herself for Filipinos and the Philippines).”
“I wish her all the very best. Muli, maraming salamat, VP Leni (Again, thank you, VP Leni)!,” said De Lima.
De Lima was charged by the DOJ with three cases for illegal drug trading in 2017 that were later changed to conspiracy to commit illegal drug trading.
One of the cases was dismissed by a Muntinlupa court in February 2021 and two are pending. Last month, she asked a Muntinlupa court to dismiss one of her cases after Ragos, a key witness, recanted all his statements and testimonies including delivering P10 million to De Lima at her residence in Paranaque in 2012.