Mary Jane Veloso (AP)

OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino has filed on Monday, Dec. 16 House Resolution (HR) No. 2139 urging President Marcos to grant presidential pardon to Mary Jane Veloso, who is set to return to the Philippines this week.

Magsino, in a statement, says Veloso’s case highlights the exploitation faced by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and the urgent need for the government to address such injustices.

“Mary Jane’s story is a stark reminder of the dangers our OFWs face in their pursuit of a better life,” said Magsino.

“By seeking a pardon, President Marcos can help restore her dignity and show the world that the Philippines stands firmly in protecting its citizens abroad,” she added.

Veloso, who was on death row in Indonesia, had been imprisoned since 2010 after being convicted of drug trafficking.

Throughout the years, Veloso insisted that this was a crime she unknowingly committed as a victim of human trafficking.

The Filipino inmate has now been moved to the Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, before she is expected to fly home later this week.

“Her return marks an important step toward justice, but we hope coming home would mean being back in the embrace of her family, and not just a transfer from one prison to another,” noted Magsino.

Veloso’s return to her homeland was made by possible by the Indonesian government’s new policy that allows the transfer of custody over foreign prisoners to their countries of nationality.

Magsino pointed out that under this policy, President Marcos will have the discretion to grant presidential pardon to Veloso once she is transferred to a Philippine prison. She said such a decision will be respected by Indonesia.

“A pardon would not only end the lingering shadow of her conviction, but also reaffirm our commitment to fighting for justice for every OFW,” she stressed.

At the same time, the congresswoman is urging the government to strengthen anti-trafficking laws and enhance support mechanisms for OFWs.

“We cannot allow another Mary Jane Veloso to happen. Her case should push us to do more in protecting our OFWs from trafficking and exploitation,” she said.