MANILA – The parents of Mary Jane Veloso, the overseas Filipino worker facing a death sentence over drug charges in Indonesia, expressed elation over her looming return to the Philippines.
The Indonesian government had earlier conveyed its willingness to transfer Veloso’s custody to the Philippines as long as she would serve her sentence at a prison in the country.
In a radio interview on Wednesday, Mary Jane’s father Cesar said the development is an answered prayer years after their repeated appeal for her return.
“Nagpapasalamat po ako maraming salamat sa ating mahal na Pangulo at natugunan na rin po ang aming kahilingan na pauwiin na si Mary Jane dito sa Pilipinas (I want to thank our President because our desire for Mary Jane to be sent home will soon come happen),” he said.
Her mother Celia, for her part, said: “Sa tulong ng Pangulo natin, sa mga taong tumutulong sa kanya, nagkaroon na po ng linaw, masaya na po kami dahil makakauwi rin pala ‘yong anak ko (With the help of our President and others who have been helping us, there is now clarity that it is possible for her to return to the Philippines).”
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said Veloso “is coming home” soon after confirming that the two governments have reached an agreement on her return to the country.
He said the outcome is a “reflection of the depth of our nation’s partnership with Indonesia – united in a shared commitment to justice and compassion.”
Moment of immense joy, relief
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) also hailed the forthcoming return of Veloso to the Philippines.
“Today, we celebrate a moment of immense joy and relief as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has confirmed that after 14 long years of imprisonment, Mary Jane Veloso will finally be transferred back home to the Philippines,” CBCP-Episcopal Commission for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Itinerant People (ECMI) vice chair, Bishop Ruperto Santos said in a statement.
The Antipolo prelate said this development brings hope and happiness to the OFW’s family and those who have tirelessly advocated for her release.
“Mary Jane’s journey is a testament to the answered prayers of many. It is where the power of faith, perseverance, and the unwavering support of a united community prevailed,” the Antipolo prelate added.
At the same time, Santos called on the faithful to continue praying for the welfare of 40 other Filipinos who are on the death row abroad.
“May you find strength in the knowledge that you are not alone. The entire nation stands behind you, praying for your safety and hoping for a just resolution to your cases. Let your faith be your anchor, and may you draw comfort from the love and support of your fellow Filipinos,” he added. (with Ferdinand Patinio/PNA)
