Manila: The Indonesian government is open to the possibility of granting clemency to Mary Jane Veloso once she returns to the Philippines, as reported by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega stated that both Manila and Jakarta are set to work out the details concerning Veloso’s transfer.

According to Philippines News Agency, discussions between the two governments will focus on the legal complexities surrounding Veloso’s case, including the authority to grant her clemency. De Vega mentioned that there have been “indications” from the Indonesian side about the possibility of President Prabowo Subianto granting clemency. This comes in the wake of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s announcement that Veloso is expected to return home after Indonesia agreed to facilitate her transfer.

Veloso was initially arrested in 2010 when Indonesian authorities discovered 2.6 kg of heroin in her suitcase. Although she was sentenced to death, she received a las
t-minute reprieve in April 2015 after the Philippine government informed Indonesia of the surrender of her recruiters.

In a Palace press briefing, De Vega explained that the two nations have options regarding her release. One option involves requesting her official release from Indonesia’s criminal procedure system once she is back in the Philippines, while another allows the Philippine President to issue clemency based on her lengthy detention. He emphasized that a presidential clemency is indeed possible but would require careful deliberation.

The timeline for Veloso’s return remains uncertain, yet the DFA, alongside the Department of Justice (DOJ), is committed to expediting her transfer. De Vega assured that the Philippines would respect Indonesia’s sovereignty and jurisdiction concerning the case.

Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin ‘Boying’ Remulla has instructed the National Bureau of Investigation to receive Veloso upon her arrival in the Philippines, as confirmed by DOJ Assistant Secretary
and Spokesperson Mico Clavano. They are also considering potential detention facilities for Veloso, including the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong.