By Gabriela Baron
Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. said former Senator Leila de Lima prefers to stay at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center after she was taken hostage by three detainees.
Abalos personally visited de Lima on Sunday.
“Upon instructions from President Bongbong Marcos, another facility would be provided [to] Sen. De Lima keeping in mind her safety, at the option of Sen. De Lima to either remain at her current facility or be transferred to another one,” Abalos said.
“What is paramount is the safety of everyone including Sen. De Lima. Senator De Lima opted to stay at her current facility,” he added.
In a tweet, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said he will be speaking to de Lima to check on her condition following the incident.
“Following this morning’s incident at Camp Crame, I will be speaking to Senator De Lima to check on her condition and to ask if she wishes to be transferred to another detention center,” Marcos said.
The Chief Executive also directed Camp Crame officials to enforce measures to avoid similar incidents from happening again.
READ MORE: De Lima hostaged in Camp Crame jail
