Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros urged the government, particularly law enforcement agencies, to provide security for Mary Jane Veloso upon her expected return to the Philippines.
Veloso’s mother, Celia, expressed concerns for her daughter’s safety if she is transferred to a Philippine jail, suggesting that Mary Jane may be safer remaining incarcerated in Indonesia.
“Here in the Philippines, we cannot be certain because we’re up against an international drug syndicate,” Mrs. Veloso stated.
Mrs. Veloso recalled the threats her family faced over the years. “We were placed under the protection of the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) and police. Migrante had to hide us in Manila—Mary Jane’s husband, her children, and us,” she recounted.
During a forum, Hontiveros emphasized the need for authorities to ensure Veloso’s protection, stating, “We saved her from the death penalty; her life and safety must be safeguarded. She has become a victim, and this is an additional reason to dismantle the syndicate.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously announced that Veloso, who was sentenced to death in Indonesia on drug charges, will be repatriated to the Philippines after extensive negotiations.
The Indonesian government indicated that it plans to initiate the transfer process for Veloso next month, provided that specific conditions set for the Philippine government are met.
These conditions include Veloso serving the remainder of her sentence in the Philippines, Manila’s acknowledgment of the Indonesian court’s final decision regarding her case, and the Philippine government’s agreement to cover the costs associated with her return.
Senator Grace Poe commended the mutual effort of the Philippine and Indonesian governments for making Veloso’s homecoming possible.
“The welfare of our Overseas Filipino Workers is a matter of great importance. It is incumbent upon concerned government agencies to safeguard our migrant workers and guarantee their rights,” she said.
