Absolute pardon eyed for Mary Jane Veloso, says solon

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the President (OP) is seriously considering granting absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso, who has been detained for over a decade for alleged drug trafficking, Bataan Rep. Albert Garcia said on Wednesday. 

During the House sponsorship and plenary deliberations for the proposed budget of the OP for next year, Gabriela party-list Rep. Sarah Elago asked Garcia on the measures of the OP to ensure Veloso’s immediate freedom. 

READ: Mandaluyong court allows Mary Jane Veloso to testify in detention

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Garcia is the budget sponsor of the OP. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto was also present during the deliberations.

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“The Office of the President is seriously considering to grant absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso on humanitarian grounds in support of the government’s commitment to protecting Filipino migrant workers,” Garcia said. 

Elago asked when the consideration is be expected to come out.

“There will be an announcement in a few days,” Garcia replied.

Elago welcomed the development, emphasizing that the government must protect the welfare of Filipino migrant workers. 

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READ: Mary Jane Veloso seeks clemency

“Ang issue na ito ay hindi lang tungkol kay Mary Jane Veloso kung hindi para sa bawat Pilipino na naghahangad ng magandang buhay,” Elago said. 

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Veloso is a former overseas Filipino worker who was sentenced to death and spent nearly 15 years in jail in Indonesia for alleged drug trafficking. 

She was repatriated in December 2024 through diplomatic efforts and agreement between the Philippines and Indonesia.

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She is currently held at the Correctional Institution for Women.