World · Philippines Bureau
Hontiveros urges US authorities to free detained son of slain journalist Lapid
Senator Risa Hontiveros has appealed to US Immigration authorities for the release of Mark Mabasa, whose father, broadcast journalist Percival 'Percy' Lapid, was killed in 2022. Mabasa has been held at an immigration detention center in California since late September.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday called on United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials to immediately release Mark Mabasa, the son of slain broadcast journalist Percival 'Percy' Lapid. Mabasa has been in custody at the Adelanto ICE Processing Center in California since September 21.
Hontiveros, a vocal advocate for press freedom and human rights, made the appeal citing the family's circumstances and the loss of Lapid, a prominent radio broadcaster who was fatally shot in Manila in October 2022. The killing sparked widespread outrage and investigations into threats against media practitioners in the Philippines.
The detention of Mabasa, whose father's death underscored dangers faced by journalists in the country, adds another layer to a case that has drawn international attention. Hontiveros's intervention reflects ongoing concerns about the treatment of Filipinos in US custody and broader issues surrounding the family's welfare.
Details regarding the specific reasons for Mabasa's detention and the timeline for possible release remain unclear. The case highlights the intersection of immigration enforcement and high-profile cases affecting prominent Filipino families.