After 14 years in an Indonesian prison, Filipina death row inmate Mary Jane Veloso may soon have a chance to return home under Indonesia’s “transfer of prisoner” policy.
The Coordinating Ministry for Legal, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correction (Kemenko Kumham Imipas) of Indonesia announced it is considering the policy as part of constructive diplomacy. This was discussed during a meeting with Philippine Ambassador Gina Alagon Jamoralin, where Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra emphasized Indonesia’s commitment to upholding legal sovereignty while considering prisoner transfer options.
If approved, Veloso would serve the remainder of her sentence in the Philippines, adhering to the terms set by the Indonesian court. The Philippines, in turn, would be obligated to enforce the Indonesian verdict as part of a reciprocal cooperation agreement.
Ongoing Discussions
Kemenko Kumham Imipas confirmed ongoing internal discussions and policy formulation on resolving the issue of foreign prisoners through bilateral negotiations or prisoner transfers. Indonesia’s newly elected President Prabowo Subianto has been briefed on the matter.
Yusril stated, “Our nation’s sovereignty in prosecuting crimes committed by foreign nationals must be fully respected. Rehabilitation, remission, or clemency decisions for returned prisoners rest with their home countries.”
Legal and Humanitarian Considerations
Atty. Edre Olalia, Veloso’s legal counsel and chair of the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers, highlighted three key factors President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. could consider in granting Veloso clemency:
- Humanitarian Grounds: Veloso’s prolonged incarceration and circumstances.
- Evidence: Her claim of being a human trafficking victim, not a drug courier.
- Legal Discrepancy: The death penalty imposed in Indonesia is not enforced in the Philippines.
Although the transfer is still under consideration, Olalia expressed support for its approval, calling it a “pleasant surprise.”
Family and Legal Background
Veloso’s family has been informed of the potential transfer. They have actively appealed for clemency, including sending letters to then-President Joko Widodo and President Marcos in early 2024.
In 2010, Veloso was convicted of drug trafficking after being caught with 2.6 kilos of heroin in Yogyakarta. She has maintained her innocence, asserting she was a victim of human trafficking. In 2015, she was granted a temporary reprieve from execution, allowing her traffickers, Julius Lacanilao and Cristina Sergio, to face trial in the Philippines.
While the illegal recruitment case against the recruiters ended in a guilty verdict in 2020, the human trafficking case remains unresolved. Veloso was last reunited with her family in June 2023.
Next Steps
The Indonesian and Philippine governments continue negotiations on Veloso’s potential transfer. Both sides hope the decision will strengthen their bilateral relations and underscore their commitment to justice and human rights.