Statement of VP Leni Robredo on the Passing of Baby River Nasino

Last Friday, Oct. 9, we learned of the passing of Baby River, the three-month-old child of detained community organizer Reina Mae Nasino.

Baby River was separated from her mother just one month after birth, with the court denying multiple pleas for Reina Mae to be with her baby who was then in critical condition.

With Baby River’s passing, we support the calls for the temporary release of Reina Mae so that she can be with her family and loved ones during this difficult time. This is the least we could do for a mother who lost her daughter too soon and under these painful circumstances.

As Filipinos, as human beings, we know how intimate and important the relationship between a mother and child is—from the first embrace up until the last breath. I hope we respect and uphold this relationship. We urge the court to choose compassion and empathy.

I offer my deepest condolences to the Nasino family during these difficult times. May Baby River’s soul rest in peace.

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