Senator Hontiveros urges Philippine government to speed Mark Mabasa's release from ICE detention

Senator Risa Hontiveros called on the Philippine government to act swiftly to secure the release of Mark Mabasa, the son of the assassinated broadcaster Percy Lapid, who is currently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in California. Mabasa arrived in the United States to seek asylum after receiving death threats following his father's killing in October 2022. Officials have not explained why he remains in custody, which Hontiveros described as unacceptable.

The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles performed a welfare visit at the family's request and indicated it can provide assistance in line with U.S. regulations. Hontiveros has already contacted Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel "Babes" Romualdez, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, and Consul General Adel Cruz, urging coordinated action. She also referenced prior threats against the family and linked the former Bureau of Corrections chief Gerald Bantag to the original murder, emphasizing the need to stop further trauma to the victims.