The Philippine National Police (PNP) accommodated on Thursday, Dec. 1, a staff of a United States senator to see the condition of former senator Leila de Lima.
The visit was given a go-signal by Police Maj. Gen. Michael John Dubria, acting Chief of the Directorial Staff of the PNP, upon compliance with all the requirements and necessary security protocols.
"They saw for themselves the living conditions of former senator Leila de Lima in her quarters at the PNP Custodial Center while under police custody," said Dubria.
Chris Homan, senior adviser on national security and foreign policy of US Democrat Senator Dick Durbin visited De Lima at 9:40 a.m. on Thursday by virtue of a court order. He was assisted by US Embassy personnel.
The visiting team was received at the Chief, PNP Lounge, PNP Grandstand for briefing and documentation followed by frisking and depositing of personal items prior to the entry at the PNP Custodial Center.
They were briefed on the adjusted security measures imposed at the facility following the botched escape attempt by three detained members of the Abu Sayyaf Group last Oct. 9.
"He (Homan) was informed that De Lima’s health condition is regularly monitored by PNP doctors. The team was also briefed on De Lima’s own decision to remain at the facility despite offers of transfer of detention facility," said Dubria.
De Lima is confined in a separate living quarters where she has her own basic furniture and fixtures.
The visit ended at around 10:20 a.m.