OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino on Monday filed a resolution asking President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to grant a presidential pardon to Mary Jane Veloso, who is set to return to the Philippines after she was convicted of drug trafficking in Indonesia in 2010.
Magsino emphasized the need for government intervention to address the exploitation and injustices being encountered by some of the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
“Mary Jane’s story is a stark reminder of the dangers our OFWs face in their pursuit of a better life. By seeking a pardon, President Marcos can help restore her dignity and show the world that the Philippines stands firmly in protecting its citizens abroad,” Magsino said.
Magsino said Veloso’s return, which comes after years of advocacy by her family and human rights groups, was made possible by the adoption of the Indonesian government of its new policy, allowing the transfer of custody over foreign prisoners to their countries of nationality.
Under her House Resolution No. 2139, Magsino said that throughout Veloso’s trial, “She maintained her innocence, claiming that she was duped into carrying the suitcase of Maria Kristina Sergio, her godsister and recruiter who convinced her to go to Indonesia after losing a job in Malaysia.”
Veloso was arrested and sentenced to death in 2010 after Indonesian authorities found 2.5 kilograms of heroin inside the suitcase.
“A pardon would not only end the lingering shadow of her conviction but also reaffirm our commitment to fighting for justice for every OFW,” Magsino said.
She also called for the government to strengthen anti-trafficking laws and enhance support mechanisms for migrant workers.
“We cannot allow another Mary Jane Veloso to happen. Her case should push us to do more in protecting our OFWs from trafficking and exploitation,” she said.
Magsino said OFW Party-list would continue to push for measures to safeguard the welfare and rights of Filipino workers abroad.
She thanked President Marcos and other officials for facilitating Veloso’s return. (PNA)