Mary Jane Veloso Returns to the Philippines After 15 Years

Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina domestic worker, was arrested in Indonesia in 2010 after 2.6 kilograms of heroin were discovered hidden in her suitcase. Veloso, who had been recruited for a job in Indonesia, claimed she was deceived by her recruiter into unknowingly carrying the illegal substance. Despite her insistence on being a victim of human trafficking, she was sentenced to death the same year.

Her execution was halted at the last minute in 2015 after the Philippine government informed Indonesia that her recruiters had surrendered to authorities. This reprieve gave hope to Veloso and her family, who continued to fight for her freedom.

Homecoming After 15 Years

On Wednesday morning, Veloso finally returned to the Philippines. She arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City at 5:51 a.m. on board Cebu Pacific flight 5J 760 from Jakarta.

Her return marks the end of a long and painful chapter in her life. Veloso was immediately transferred to the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City, where she will undergo a mandatory five-day quarantine and a 55-day orientation, including medical evaluations and security assessments.

A Humanitarian Transfer

According to Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., Veloso was not handcuffed or restrained during the flight, in line with United Nations guidelines on the treatment of prisoners. Catapang assured Veloso’s family that they would be allowed to visit her after her quarantine period, just in time for Christmas.

“This is a significant moment for Mary Jane and her family,” Catapang said, crediting the collaborative efforts of various government agencies and the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for facilitating her return.

Family Appeals for Clemency

At the airport, Veloso’s mother, Celia, renewed her plea to President Marcos to grant clemency to her daughter. “Fifteen years in prison is enough. She is innocent and was only a victim. The person responsible for the drugs has already been convicted. I hope clemency will be given so we can finally be together as a family,” Celia said in an emotional statement.

Gratitude and Hope

Mary Jane Veloso expressed her gratitude to President Marcos, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, and everyone who helped facilitate her transfer back to the Philippines. While her legal battles continue, her return brings a glimmer of hope to her family, who remain steadfast in their call for justice and freedom.