Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino domestic worker who has been on Indonesia’s death row since 2010, is set to return to the Philippines, according to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In a statement, Mr. Marcos announced the development Wednesday, thanking Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and his government for their cooperation.
“Mary Jane’s case has been a long and difficult journey,” President Marcos said.
“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,” he added.
Veloso was arrested in 2010 on drug trafficking charges and sentenced to death in Indonesia, a case that drew international attention and highlighted the plight of migrant workers.
Her family and supporters have long maintained that she was duped into carrying a suitcase lined with heroin by human traffickers.
President Marcos said Veloso was a victim of her circumstances, citing her story as emblematic of the struggles of many overseas workers.
The President also emphasized the role of the Philippines’ partnership with Indonesia in securing Veloso’s return.
“This outcome is a reflection of the depth of our nations’ partnership—united in a shared commitment to justice and compassion,” he said.
The specific terms of her repatriation have not yet been disclosed.
No timeline has been announced for her return to the country.
