San Beda University takes immense pride in the recent triumph of our distinguished alumna, former Philippine Senator Leila de Lima. After a protracted legal battle lasting for about eight years, she was acquitted of the third and last drug charge against her. The judge ruled that
the prosecution was not able to prove her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Earlier, two Muntinlupa courts also acquitted her of two separate drug cases against her. The verdicts were a victory not just for Senator de Lima but also for truth, justice and human rights – principles that she consistently defended throughout her career.

In a democratic society like the Philippines, the balance of power is pivotal; the state may exercise its immense powers but should uphold the rights of citizens. The Bill of Rights is enshrined in our Constitution to provide ordinary citizens a mantle of protection for their basic human rights. Senator de Lima’s case highlights the tension between State Power and the Bill of Rights. Balancing the powers of the state and the rights of individuals is the rule of  law. A state that weaponizes the law against one of its citizens because of his/her politics or ideological convictions does not respect the rule of law.

Senator de Lima’s ordeal exemplifies how the state can egregiously weaponize the law. According to retired University of the Philippines Professor Randy David, a weapon is an object used to inflict harm or injury on a person or group. To “weaponize”, he adds, is to transform or convert something into an instrument of attack. In Senator de Lima’s case, the law was weaponized to undermine her authority and credibility, as a sitting Senator when the trumped-up charges were filed against her. The cases were filed to silence an outspoken critic of human rights abuses.

Senator de Lima’s dedication to human rights is well-documented. Prior to her appointment as Secretary of the Department of Justice and her election as a Senator, she served as Chair of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and spearheaded critical investigations into extrajudicial killings. Her unwavering commitment to justice and accountability set her apart as a formidable defender of human dignity. Her work at the CHR earned her both
national and international acclaim, bolstering her reputation as a champion of human rights.

The events surrounding Senator de Lima’s court cases offer a profound insight into the roles of the executive, legislative and judiciary branches of government. When the drug charges against her were first brought up, Senator de Lima’s colleagues in the legislative branch were divided. While some defended her and questioned the legitimacy of the charges, others aligned with the administration’s stance. This division highlighted the polarization of the political landscape and the importance of legislative independence.

The judiciary’s eventual acquittal of Senator de Lima is a testament to its critical role in upholding truth and justice. Despite the immense pressure put to bear on them, the courts demonstrated their commitment to due process and the rule of law. The acquittal of Senator de Lima reaffirms the judiciary’s role as a bulwark against abuses of power by other branches of the government.

The dropping of all charges against Senator Leila de Lima is more than her personal victory. It is a reaffirmation of the enduring power of truth, justice and the rule of law. Her resilience despite the ordeal she unjustly suffered serves as an inspiration to all, specifically to us Bedans. As we celebrate her victory, we are reminded of the mission of San Beda University, which is to form its members in Faith (Fides), Knowledge (Scientia), and Virtue (Virtus), and inculcate in them the Benedictine core values of prayer and work (Ora et Labora). On behalf of the San Beda community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Senator de Lima.

Madam Senator, I firmly believe that you will continue to be a beacon of hope and a steadfast advocate for the marginalized and oppressed. I join you in thanking our Lord that, in the end, truth and justice prevailed, and your legacy as defender of human rights endured.

This article is dedicated to the spirit of perseverance and justice embodied by Senator Leila de Lima, a true Bedan at heart. 

by Atty. Winston Ginez (CAS 1990 LAW 1995)