Indonesia has formally agreed to repatriate Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina who has been on death row in Indonesia since 2010 after being convicted of drug trafficking. The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed the agreement, describing it as a result of years of diplomatic negotiations between the two nations. Veloso will be transferred to Philippine custody to serve the remainder of her sentence under Philippine law.
Veloso was arrested in Indonesia for carrying heroin hidden in a suitcase, a crime she claims she was unaware of, stating she was a victim of human trafficking. Her case has drawn widespread attention and advocacy from human rights groups, highlighting issues faced by overseas Filipino workers.
The repatriation agreement involves her continuing to serve her sentence in the Philippines while awaiting a potential clemency decision. This decision reflects strengthened bilateral relations between the Philippines and Indonesia, underscored by shared commitments to justice and humanitarian considerations.
Read. Mary Jane Veloso's Case: Indonesia Considers Transfer to the Philippines