MANILA, Philippines - Commission on Human Rights Chairwoman Leila de Lima joined many government officials today who gave emotional farewells to their respective offices they have served over the past few years or so.

Even if she is joining the Aquino administration however, de Lima can’t help but still be emotional.

Known as a feisty lawyer, de Lima shed a few tears as she bade goodbye to the agency that she has served for two years.

CHR media affairs chief Marie Cruz described de Lima as both “magical and amazing.”

While they will be missing a good leader, Cruz said employees would understand that de Lima would bring her expertise to a bigger agency such as the Department of Justice.

De Lima still refused to admit she will be the next Justice Secretary.

She can only describe her stay in the CHR as “overall very fulfilling...many frustrations but inspiring.”

CHR has yet to issue resolutions on cases such as the abduction of the health workers called Morong 43, the liabilities of the police in the case of missing activist Jonas Burgos and the unabated killings in Davao City allegedly by the so-called Davao Death Squad.

De Lima also said it frustrates her that the agency is yet without a comprehensive CHR Charter. CHR still does not have any coercive powers nor any protective programs for witnesses, she said.

Asked what the DoJ’s thrust should be under the Aquino administration, she said it should prosecute and convict the “big fishes.”

She is not in favor of reviving the death penalty however, considering her human rights advocacy.