A "victory for justice" was the Commission on Human Rights' (CHR) reaction to the acquittal of its former chairperson and senator Leila M. de Lima in the third and last illegal drugs case filed against her during the past administration.
In a decision, the Muntinlupa City regional trial court (RTC) granted the demurrer to evidence filed by De Lima based on the weakness of the prosecution's evidence against her.
"Assessing the totality of the evidence presented by the prosecution, the Court is of the firm resolve and so holds that the prosecution was not able to prove the guilt of all accused beyond a reasonable doubt," the RTC ruled.
Former Bureau of Corrections Director Franklin Bucayu, De Lima's former bodyguard Ronnie Dayan, Joenel Sanchez, and Jad Dera were also acquitted.
"The Commission welcomes the decision as it is a significant victory for justice and the rule of law," the CHR said in a statement.
"Likewise, we commend the Muntinlupa RTC and all concerned individuals whose efforts played a crucial role in ensuring that justice and the rule of law are upheld," it also said.
While the CHR celebrates De Lima's regained freedom, it stressed that her case must serve as a "catalyst" to continuously sound the alarm to uphold justice and protect human rights.
It pointed out that the government should foster an environment where dissent is valued and respected without fear of retribution. "After all, no one else should endure such an ordeal in pursuing truth and justice," it said.