Manila: The social advocacy arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has aligned itself with calls for clemency for Mary Jane Veloso, who is slated to be sent back to the Philippines from Indonesia following her 2010 conviction for drug trafficking.

According to Philippines News Agency, Caritas Philippines issued a statement on Tuesday expressing a plea for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to grant clemency to Veloso upon her return. The organization emphasized the importance of solidarity and humanitarian grounds, highlighting Veloso’s victimization by human trafficking. “Solidarity is rising once more to pray that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. grants clemency to Mary Jane upon her arrival. We cannot help but walk with her in solidarity, joining the prayers for her immediate and full clemency on humanitarian grounds as a victim of human trafficking,” the statement read.

Caritas Philippines also noted the impact on Veloso’s family, recognizing the challenges they have faced throughou
t this arduous journey. “Their family has endured much in this tumultuous journey. Mary Jane’s human trafficking has affected them all,” the organization stated. They expressed hope for clemency, believing it would bring warmth and justice, especially during the Christmas season.

In conjunction with these efforts, the CBCP hosted a Mass at its Intramuros chapel in Manila, attended by Veloso’s parents and celebrated by Caritas Philippines vice chair Bishop Gerardo Alminaza. During the service, Bishop Alminaza conveyed gratitude for the possibility of Veloso’s return and expressed a sincere prayer for her clemency, as reported by the CBCP News website. Migrants’ advocates, along with representatives from Caritas Philippines and the bishops’ Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (ECMI), were also present at the Mass.

While no specific date has been announced for Veloso’s return, reports suggest that she could possibly return to the Philippines this month.