By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senators have praised Malacañang’s efforts to facilitate the return of Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina facing execution in Indonesia, saying the actions reflect the administration’s commitment to protecting the welfare of Filipinos abroad.
“This initiative demonstrates the administration’s dedication to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of every Filipino, especially those who find themselves in difficult situations overseas,” Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said on Wednesday (Nov. 20, 2024).
“Mary Jane is a victim of circumstance, deceived by unscrupulous individuals who exploited her vulnerability and unknowingly used her as a courier in their illegal activities,” he added.
Estrada further emphasized that her case underscores the urgent need to protect overseas workers from similar predicaments and strengthen measures against human trafficking and illegal recruitment.
Senator Grace Poe, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of protecting the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
“It is the responsibility of concerned government agencies to ensure the safety and rights of our migrant workers,” she said. “We must make sure no Filipino migrant worker falls victim to another death sentence.”
In addition, Estrada urged the Department of Justice to recognize Veloso’s status as a victim of human trafficking and involvement with drug syndicates.
“They should explore options for clemency or commutation of her sentence, treating her as a victim rather than a criminal,” he said.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. recently announced that Veloso will be returning home to the Philippines.
ia/mnm