MANILA, Philippines – Mary Jane Veloso, the Filipina who spent nearly 15 years on death row in Indonesia for drug trafficking, arrived in the Philippines early Wednesday morning, according to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).
BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. confirmed that Veloso’s flight landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City at around 5:40 a.m.
“The flight from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, which departed at 12:05 a.m., marks the conclusion of a harrowing chapter in Veloso’s life,” the BuCor said in a statement.
Humane Transport and Reintegration Process
Catapang emphasized that Veloso was not handcuffed or subjected to any form of restraint during the flight, in compliance with the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, adopted by the United Nations.
“She had no intention of escaping or harming herself and expressed eagerness to return to the Philippines,” Catapang added.
Upon arrival, Veloso was immediately transported to the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City. There, she will undergo a mandatory five-day quarantine, followed by a 55-day orientation, diagnostic evaluation, and initial security classification, as part of standard procedures for newly admitted persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
The BuCor assured Veloso’s family that they will be allowed to visit her in time for Christmas, following her quarantine period and comprehensive medical and physical examination.
Family and Supporters Miss Airport Reunion
Veloso’s family, lawyers, and members of the Save Mary Jane Task Force traveled from Nueva Ecija to welcome her at NAIA but were unable to meet her. She was promptly escorted to a vehicle bound for CIW.
International Negotiations Lead to Veloso’s Return
Veloso’s repatriation follows an agreement reached between the Philippine and Indonesian governments, announced by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on November 19.
In 2010, Veloso was sentenced to death after being caught with 2.6 kilograms of heroin hidden in her suitcase at Yogyakarta Airport in Indonesia. She consistently maintained her innocence, claiming she was unaware of the contraband and had been deceived by her recruiters, Julius Lacanilao and Maria Cristina Sergio.
A Step Toward Justice
Veloso’s return is seen as a significant step forward in her long fight for justice. Her case has drawn international attention, highlighting the plight of trafficking victims and the need for stronger protections for vulnerable workers. (AFP photo)