By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) clarified that the Indonesian government did not request anything in return after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced that Mary Jane Veloso would be returning to the Philippines.
“There have been many speculations about the return and what conditions may be involved. The Indonesians have not asked for anything in exchange,” Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said.
“Let me clarify, this is not in exchange for anything,” he added.
Veloso, who was convicted of drug trafficking in Indonesia in 2010, has been on death row for 14 years.
Senators have previously praised the government’s efforts to assist Veloso.
“This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of every Filipino, particularly those facing challenging circumstances abroad,” said Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada.
Senator Grace Poe also emphasized, “It is incumbent upon concerned government agencies to protect our migrant workers and ensure their rights.”
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