The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed Tuesday that the Philippine and Indonesian governments are in active discussions about the possible transfer of Filipino death row inmate Mary Jane Veloso.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs wishes to confirm that the governments of the Philippines and Indonesia have been engaged in discussions regarding the possible transfer of Mary Jane Veloso to the Philippines to serve her sentence in a Philippine facility,” the DFA told reporters.
“The DFA joins the Filipino nation in the hope and prayers for a successful resolution of this issue, one which shall do justice to Ms. Veloso and her family while strengthening the deep bonds of friendship between the Philippines and Indonesia,” it added.
Veloso has been on Indonesia’s death row for over 14 years following her conviction for drug trafficking. Discussions about her potential transfer grew after the Indonesian government announced its openness to the idea, citing its respect for the Philippines’ diplomatic request.
“Indonesia respects the request from the Philippine government to consider the transfer of Mary Jane Veloso in the interest of law enforcement in the Philippines,” said Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra of Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correction.
Mahendra clarified that once foreign prisoners are transferred to their home countries, the responsibility for their rehabilitation lies entirely with those nations. This includes decisions on clemency or sentence modifications, which would rest solely with the receiving government.
“The Philippines is also expected to recognize this decision and enforce the sentence as determined in Indonesia. This policy serves as part of a reciprocal cooperation between the two countries to respect and strengthen international law enforcement,” Indonesia’s press release stated.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega expressed optimism earlier that the ongoing discussions will result in a “mutually agreed solution.” He added he is hopeful to announce something “positive” soon.
