MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced the impending return of Filipina domestic worker Mary Jane Veloso, who was in detention in Indonesia after being convicted of drug trafficking.
Marcos, in a statement on Wednesday, expressed gratitude to the Indonesian government and President Prabowo Subianto for their role in facilitating Veloso’s return.
“Mary Jane’s story resonates deeply with many Filipinos — a mother who fell victim to dire circumstances and paid a heavy price,” President Marcos said.
“While she was held accountable under Indonesian law, she remains a symbol of resilience and the global fight against human trafficking,” the Chief Executive added.
President Marcos also attributed the prison transfer of Veloso to the Philippines to years of diplomatic engagement between the two countries, calling it “a reflection of our shared commitment to justice and humanity.”
“We eagerly await Mary Jane’s return to her family and to the nation that has stood by her throughout this long and difficult journey,” the President further said.
Veloso, 39, was arrested in 2010 after arriving in Indonesia with 2.6 kilograms of heroin hidden in her luggage. She has consistently maintained her innocence, claiming she was duped by recruiters who exploited her desperation to escape poverty.
Her 2015 execution was postponed after a groundswell of international advocacy and intervention by the Philippine government.
Meanwhile, the National Union of Peoples Lawyers (NUPL) has urged President Marcos to extend clemency on humanitarian grounds for Veloso once she returns in the country.
“Even as we continue to pray that Mary Jane will really step foot back in our homeland soon, we call on President Marcos Jr. to accord her immediate clemency on humanitarian grounds and as a matter of justice,” NUPL chairperson Atty. Edre Olalia said./PN
