In a heartfelt plea for justice, the family of Mary Jane Veloso, an overseas Filipino worker currently imprisoned in Indonesia, is calling on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to discuss her case with President Joko Widodo. The urgency of this request comes as President Widodo is on a three-day official visit to the Philippines.
Mary Jane Veloso, now 39 years old, was sentenced to death in 2010 on charges of drug trafficking in Indonesia. However, in 2015, her execution was stayed following a global outcry to save her life. Now, her family is urging President Marcos to appeal for “clemency and freedom” on her behalf.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Veloso’s mother, Celia, made an emotional appeal, stating, “We are appealing to President Marcos to discuss our daughter’s case with President Widodo. They are about to meet today, and we believe that he can do something about Mary Jane’s case. We believe that this meeting can bring us one step closer to securing her freedom. Our hearts ache to be reunited with her, and her children are eagerly awaiting her release.”
This is not the first time that Veloso’s case has been raised at the highest levels of government. President Marcos had previously mentioned her situation during a talk with President Widodo at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Indonesia back in 2023. The ongoing efforts to secure her release demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the Filipino government to fight for the rights of their citizens abroad.
The fervor surrounding Veloso’s case has also mobilized a strong support network. Supporters of Veloso gathered near the Mendiola Bridge, close to Malacanang, where President Marcos and President Widodo are expected to meet. Their presence symbolizes the collective hope for a positive outcome and underscores the importance of bilateral relations between the two countries.
The plight of overseas Filipino workers is a matter of deep concern for the Philippines. With millions of Filipinos working abroad, their welfare and protection are paramount. The case of Mary Jane Veloso serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by these workers, particularly when they become entangled in legal issues in foreign countries.
It is crucial to recognize that each country has its own set of laws and customs, and navigating through these systems can be complex and daunting for individuals who are far from home. The support and intervention of the Philippine government, as well as the international community, are vital in ensuring that the rights and well-being of overseas Filipino workers are safeguarded.
While the outcome of the meeting between Presidents Marcos and Widodo remains uncertain, the plea for clemency for Mary Jane Veloso resonates with people around the world. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and cooperation between nations in addressing the plight of individuals facing legal challenges abroad.
As the global community becomes increasingly interconnected, it is imperative that governments work together to protect the rights of their citizens, regardless of their location. The case of Mary Jane Veloso serves as a rallying cry for justice, urging leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue and take decisive action to ensure the well-being and freedom of those who find themselves in vulnerable situations overseas.
Let us hope that the meeting between President Marcos and President Widodo will pave the way for a positive resolution in Mary Jane Veloso’s case and inspire greater efforts to protect the rights and welfare of overseas Filipino workers worldwide.
Source: The Manila Times
