Marcos Weighs Clemency for Mary Jane Veloso

Mary Jane Veloso, who spent nearly 15 years on death row in Indonesia for drug trafficking, returned to the Philippines on December 18, 2024, after a diplomatic arrangement between the two nations. Veloso has appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for clemency, asserting her innocence and claiming she was an unwitting victim of a drug syndicate. Marcos stated that it is too early to decide on her clemency request, emphasizing that legal experts will review her case. Upon her arrival, Veloso was welcomed by her family and supporters and is currently undergoing a mandatory evaluation at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong. The government has committed to ensuring her safety and welfare, as her family fears potential threats from the syndicate that involved her. Veloso's case has garnered political attention, with lawmakers urging for her clemency amidst her ongoing adjustments in the Philippines.