Press Release
May 22, 2019

Dispatch from Crame No. 521:
Sen. Leila M. de Lima's Statement on the Barring of Former Ombudsman Morales by HK Authorities

5/22/19

Like many others, I am appalled and disgusted upon learning of the events that transpired at the Hong Kong airport concerning the denial of entry of former SC Justice and Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales.

This incident is but another proof that authoritarian regimes are as vindictive and unreasonable as they can be. They either kill, jail or harass no end critics, dissenters and other perceived enemies.

It is a testament to Ombudsman Morales' fortitude that the ordeal caused her nothing more than an annoyance, choosing to leave voluntarily even after she was later allowed entry.

This incident must not be reduced into a personal affront to which the government should have no say. It should instead be considered by our government as a signal that the Del Rosario-Morales complaint vs. Chinese President Xi Jinping over "crimes against humanity" is being treated as a serious matter, and it should thus do the same. It should treat this controversial incident as nothing less than a national issue.

Ombudsman Morales spoke up and stood for the Philippines, and was in turn considered a risk, held at immigration, and considered for deportation. Meanwhile, in the Philippines - our corals are being destroyed, our clams are being stolen, our jobs are being taken, our marine territory is being wrongfully claimed, but still with open arms and without qualms, we invite and welcome China, and even enter questionable loans with it.

Mahiya naman kayo! Ombudsman Morales has served this country with the honor and dignity befitting a public servant of the highest order. I suggest you do the same.

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