10-12-2024 (MANILA) Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr revealed on Tuesday that Indonesia has requested discretion regarding public announcements on the potential repatriation of Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino national who has spent over a decade in Indonesian custody.
Speaking to journalists in Bulacan, President Marcos emphasised the need to honour Indonesia’s request for silence until arrangements are finalised. This statement follows recent media attention sparked by Indonesian Minister for Human Rights and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra’s suggestion that Veloso might return to the Philippines before the Christmas holidays.
Philippine authorities have already begun preparations for Veloso’s possible transfer to the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City. Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr detailed the comprehensive intake process, which includes a five-day isolation period followed by a two-month assessment to determine appropriate security placement.
Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez confirmed that recent health assessments by Philippine Embassy officials found Veloso to be in good condition. He noted that three government agencies are coordinating the logistics of her transfer, pending final arrangements between Philippine and Indonesian authorities.
The case has drawn significant attention since 2010 when Veloso was arrested at Yogyakarta Airport for carrying 2.6 kilograms of heroin in her luggage. She narrowly escaped execution in 2015 following the arrest of her alleged recruiter, who is accused of placing the drugs in her suitcase without her knowledge.
Whilst optimism surrounds the possibility of Veloso’s return before Christmas, officials maintain that discussions about potential clemency are premature. “Our primary focus is securing her return,” Vasquez stated, emphasising the need to address immediate priorities before considering longer-term arrangements.
