The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a motion for reconsideration asking the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court to overturn the acquittal of Rep. Leila de Lima and former aide Ronnie Dayan in a drug trafficking case.
Prosecutors argued that the court erred in relying on the recantation of key witness Rafael Ragos, who had originally testified that he delivered ₱10 million in drug money to De Lima.
The DOJ stressed that Ragos’ initial statements were made under oath in various legal settings and were corroborated by other witnesses.
They claimed his later claim of coercion lacked evidence and should not outweigh sworn testimony given in court.
The DOJ also cited a Court of Appeals ruling declaring De Lima’s earlier acquittal void due to insufficient justification from the trial court.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 16, 2025
