Mary Jane Veloso, the Filipino mother sentenced to death in Indonesia for drug trafficking, is coming home after more than a decade of imprisonment, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced Wednesday.
Marcos confirmed that the Philippine government reached an agreement with Indonesian authorities, delaying her execution and paving the way for her return. Veloso was arrested in 2010 after being caught with 2.6 kilograms of heroin in Yogyakarta. She has long maintained her innocence, claiming she was a victim of human trafficking.
“After over a decade of diplomacy and consultations with the Indonesian government, we managed to delay her execution long enough to reach an agreement to finally bring her back to the Philippines,” Marcos stated. He expressed gratitude to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and highlighted the partnership between the two nations rooted in justice and compassion.
Veloso’s Journey From Death Row
Veloso’s case has drawn global attention. In 2015, then-Indonesian President Joko Widodo granted her a temporary reprieve following revelations of alleged human trafficking. Cases against her traffickers, Julius Lacanilao and Cristina Sergio, were filed in Nueva Ecija, resulting in a guilty verdict for illegal recruitment in 2020. The human trafficking case, however, remains unresolved.
Last week, Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correction suggested the possibility of a prisoner transfer. Philippine Ambassador Gina Alagon Jamoralin and Indonesian officials discussed the option, emphasizing Indonesia’s legal sovereignty while engaging in constructive diplomacy.
A Hopeful Return by Christmas
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) remains optimistic that Veloso could return to the Philippines by Christmas. DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega stated, “Although it has not been finalized yet, let’s pray that it will be completed soon.”
Veloso’s counsel, Edre Olalia, also appealed to President Marcos to grant her clemency on humanitarian grounds. The Department of Justice underscored the administration’s commitment to ensuring no Filipino is left behind.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.