Philippines Court Reverses De Lima Acquittal: Case Remanded

Court of Appeals Reverses Acquittal of Leila de Lima in Drug Case Manila, Philippines – In a significant legal development, the Court of Appeals (CA) in the Philippines has overturned the acquittal of former Senator Leila de Lima in a drug case. The CA's 8th Division ruled that the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court, presided over by Judge Abraham Joseph Alcantara, had erred in its handling of the case. The court's decision hinged on the retraction of testimony given by key witness Rafael Ragos. The CA's decision highlighted the trial court’s failure to clearly explain which elements of the crime the prosecution failed to establish. "Without Ragos's original statements," the CA stated, "the crucial link to establish conspiracy is shrouded in reasonable doubt." The case has now been remanded back to the lower court for further proceedings. De Lima's legal team has responded to the CA's decision, asserting that her acquittal remains enforceable and she will not be detained at this time. This case continues to draw significant attention in the Philippines, given de Lima's prominent political career and the ongoing debate surrounding the drug war.