The European Union welcomes the decision of the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 206 in the Philippines on Monday granting bail to former Senator Leila de Lima in the last criminal case against her.

This decision is an important step for the rule of law in the Philippines and for addressing the conclusions of the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention. We call for a speedy resolution of the remaining charges, and call on the Philippine government to ensure the safety of former Senator de Lima upon her release.

The EU reiterates its call to ensure the independence of the judiciary and the right for everyone to due process and fair trials. These are the crucial elements in any democracy.