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“Being charged with a crime punishable by life imprisonment, and non-bailable...accused De Lima cannot be given different treatment as that of other prisoners whose liberty is curtailed, pending the final resolution of their criminal cases.” A statement reads at the court’s decision on the request of the jailed senator.
According to the court, De Lima’s presence in the graduation ceremony is not indispensable, and the solemnity of the occasion will be disrupted by her presence considering she is a public figure, In addition, the court feels that her supporters might disrupt the graduation ceremony by holding a protest rally, if she will be there.
"Moreover, accused De Lima's family may celebrate the occasion with her in Camp Crame during visiting hours, even during the same day, if they wish to, without endangering themselves or other people," it added, noting that a relative of the Liberal Party (LP) senator can take a video of the event so she can watch it while inside her cell.
As part of her plea last May 15 for a temporary release, Sen. De Lima she specifically cited the case of former senator Jinggoy Estrada back in March 2015. That time, he was detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame, and the Sandiganbayan allowed him to attend the high school graduation of his son, Julian Emilio Estrada.
“Once again, this administration is doing its best in demoralizing the president’s critics. If that’s not the case, why was Estrada allowed and I’m not? Considering that his case was plunder and mine is merely an accusation, and we all know who wants me in jail. This is totally unfair and unacceptable!“ An angry Sen. De Lima said in a statement.
Contributed by Orlando Gagui
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