Former President Rodrigo Duterte emphasized the importance of respecting the court’s decision to clear former Senator Leila de Lima of her third and final drug case. This decision came after De Lima’s previous acquittals in two earlier cases.
During a visit to Tacloban City, Duterte stated that De Lima’s acquittal should be seen as a sign that democracy is functioning properly. His remarks were reported on GMA’s “24 Oras Weekend” on Sunday.
The Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court Branch 206 granted the demurrer due to the prosecution’s failure to prove the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt. De Lima had filed the demurrer in March, requesting the court to declare her not guilty due to insufficient evidence from the prosecution.
Following her acquittal, De Lima is considering taking legal action against Duterte and others she claims were responsible for her detention related to drug charges.
In the same report, Duterte advised against taking his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte’s comments too seriously regarding the possibility of three Dutertes running for senatorial seats in 2025. He also mentioned that he was not consulted about his daughter’s resignation from President Marcos’ Cabinet and that he would leave the 2028 elections up to divine will.
