Rappler Talk: Leila de Lima completely free after 7 years

MANILA, Philippines — After seven years, former senator Leila de Lima is truly free following the courts’ decision to clear her of all charges filed under the time of her nemesis, former president Rodrigo Duterte.

On Monday, June 24, Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 206 granted De Lima’s demurrer to evidence, which effectively acquitted her in her third and last drug case.

On the same day, Quezon City RTC Branch 76 also cleared the former senator of disobedience, a charge which stemmed from the House of Representatives’ 2016 probe into alleged drug trade at the New Bilibid Prison.

After the hearing, Muntinlupa City RTC Branch 206 Presiding Judge Gener Gito told De Lima that she may now enjoy her “unmitigated freedom.” Before her final acquittal, De Lima had only been provisionally free after posting bail in November 2023.

Now that her legal battle is already over, what’s next for the opposition icon?

In her first sit-down interview after her acquittal, De Lima speaks with Rappler reporter Jairo Bolledo to discuss her plans for herself and her advocacy.

Catch this episode of Rappler Talk on Monday at 9 pm. – Rappler.com