The Marcos administration is laying the groundwork for Mary Jane Veloso’s repatriation, with plans underway to form a team that will finalize her transfer and ensure her safe return from Indonesia, officials said Wednesday.
According to Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and DFA will coordinate to establish a delegation tasked with overseeing the details of Veloso’s return.
“There first has to be a team to discuss the plan formally,” De Vega said. “Eventually, the DOJ and DFA will need to be on the ground for her transfer.”
DOJ Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano confirmed that while specific plans are still under discussion, one potential location for Veloso’s detention upon her return is the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City.
“One of the obvious choices would be the CIW,” Clavano said.
As for her transfer from Indonesia, Clavano stated that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has been assigned to ensure Veloso’s safety during transit, working closely with the DFA.
“The NBI, under the directive of the Secretary, will be responsible for bringing her back safely,” Clavano explained.
Veloso, a Filipina on death row in Indonesia since 2010 for drug trafficking, has been the subject of extensive diplomatic efforts by the Philippine government, which maintains she is a victim of human trafficking.
While the exact timeline and logistical details of Veloso’s return remain unresolved, officials are committed to ensuring her safety and coordinating efforts to bring her home as soon as possible.
