De Lima hopes for Pinoy’s unity, solution to struggles on Christmas Day

Detained Senator Leila de Lima on Tuesday expressed hopes Filipinos may finally be unified and find the solution to their struggles as they celebrate Christmas.

"Ngayong Kapaskuhan, dalangin natin ay maibsan ang mga dinadanas na hirap ng ating mga kababayan, malampasan ang mabibigat na hamon na ating pinapasan, at makamtan ang ating mga hangarin at dalangin," De Lima said in a statement.

"With the different challenges we face, I pray for the continued strength, unity and compassion of all Filipinos. Despite the darkness that besieges our nation, let us hope that better things will come," she added.

De Lima reminded the public to reject the "rottenness of Philippine politics" in their efforts to overcome challenges.

The senator is spending her second Christmas inside the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame due to illegal drug charges.

She reminded other government officials to ensure all members of the community "are given the chance to become equal partners in nation building, upholding social justice and preserving our democracy and cherished freedoms.”

“That we use these means not for selfish interests, but to truly serve. Let us listen to one another instead of constantly bickering for the sake of the people we swore to protect,” De Lima said.

The lawmaker also urged her fellow public servants to draw inspiration from the plight of their constituents.

"Maging inspirasyon sana natin ang bawat batang nagsisikap at nangangarap, na balang araw ay makakaahon sila sa hirap at makararanas ng maginhawang bukas ang kanilang pamilya," De Lima said.

De Lima said she did not seek a holiday furlough from the court due to expected vehement objections from the Department of Justice. —Joseph Tristan Roxas/KG, GMA News