Manila, Philippines - Former senator Leila de Lima's legal battle took a significant turn today as the Muntinlupa Trial Court granted her bail, leading to a jubilant moment for the politician. Moments after hearing the court's decision, De Lima exclaimed "Freedom," according to her brother, Vicboy.

De Lima, while leaving the hall of justice, expressed her gratitude towards President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration for respecting the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law. She also thanked her supporters, stating, "Hindi 'nyo ako pinabayaan, 'pinaglaban 'nyo po ako dahil ipinaglalaban ko kayo palagi" (You did not abandon me, you fought for me because I always fought for you).

The presiding judge of Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court Branch 206, Gener Gito, granted De Lima and her co-accused bail, stating that the prosecution failed to establish the strong guilt of the accused. De Lima and her co-accused were asked to post bail amounting to P300,000 each.

In response to the news, Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized the judiciary's independence, stating, "It just shows the independence of the judiciary... And it just shows that democracy is alive and well in our country."

De Lima's legal battle stems from three drug charges filed against her during the time of former president Rodrigo Duterte. The charges alleged that De Lima enabled the drug trade inside the New Bilibid Prison to fund her 2016 senatorial campaign. Two of the charges were previously dismissed, leaving her with one remaining charge, which the court granted bail for.

In a message posted on her X account (formerly Twitter), former vice president Leni Robredo, an ally of De Lima, argued that the allegations against the former senator are baseless. Robredo added that De Lima's fight for truth led to the harassment she faced.

Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed joy over De Lima's impending release and thanked all those who supported the #FreeLeila campaign. Hontiveros stated, "Her release from prison through bail is the beginning of the end to this shameful episode in our democracy... Now and always, justice will prevail."

Human rights lawyer Chel Diokno expressed hope for De Lima's complete freedom and emphasized the need to hold those responsible for her persecution accountable.

De Lima is expected to be released soon, marking a significant moment in her legal battle. As the case continues, the public awaits further developments in this high-profile trial.