Former Senator Leila de Lima announced her return to politics, this time as the lead nominee of Mamamayang Liberal, a multi-sectoral party-list affiliated with the Liberal Party (LP).
De Lima, who was detained for seven years over drug-related charges before her release in November 2023, said she initially planned to resume private practice and teaching. However, she reconsidered after colleagues persuaded her to help revive the LP through party-list advocacy.
“Some of my colleagues convinced me to join ML as lead nominee. After serious thought and consultations with family and allies, I said yes,” De Lima explained during a press conference on Friday.
She highlighted the significance of the party-list system in advocating for underrepresented groups, calling it a chance to “focus on advocating for those who need it most—the true essence of the party-list.”
Reviving the Liberal Party’s Influence
De Lima admitted the Liberal Party faced significant challenges recently, with declining political influence. She sees the 2025 midterm elections as an opportunity for the party to regain prominence.
“We want to reverse the false narrative that has been used against the party,” she said, emphasizing the need for renewal.
Position on Sara Duterte’s Impeachment
De Lima strongly stated the Senate must immediately proceed with the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, citing constitutional obligations.
“The Constitution is very clear—once the articles of impeachment are filed, the Senate trial must immediately proceed. ‘Shall’ means mandatory, ‘forthwith’ means immediately. It’s not optional,” De Lima explained.
She criticized the House of Representatives for delaying the impeachment process by two months, suggesting it indicated political maneuvering.
Former Quezon congressman Erin Tañada, ML’s third nominee, supported De Lima’s stance, noting that the Constitution offers no room for discretion on impeachment.
“The Constitution doesn’t say there must be public clamor. It only says the Senate ‘shall forthwith proceed,'” Tañada said, anticipating potential Supreme Court petitions but arguing that any delays would be unconstitutional.
Clarifying Links to Disbarred Lawyer
De Lima also addressed recent controversy over the disbarment of lawyer Demosthenes Tecson, who allegedly retained money meant for her campaign. She vehemently denied knowing or having any connection to Tecson, calling the accusations baseless.
“I was shocked to see my name linked. I do not know this person, and neither does my campaign team,” De Lima said, criticizing the Supreme Court’s press release for mentioning her name without verification.