Mary Jane Veloso Returns to Philippines After 15 Years
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Hope for Clemency
In a pre-departure interview, Veloso expressed her hope for clemency, stating, “Gusto ko na makalaya ako… Clemency… mapawalang sala. Kasi wala akong kasalanan.” (“I want to be freed… Clemency… be found without guilt. I am innocent.”) Her plea for clemency has been echoed by her legal team and supporters. Malacañang has declined to comment on Veloso’s potential clemency at this time, stating that their priority is ensuring her safe and swift repatriation.A Case That shocked the Nation
Veloso’s case sparked outrage in the Philippines when she was sentenced to death in 2010 after being caught with 2.6 kilograms of heroin. A last-minute reprieve in 2015, secured through diplomatic efforts, spared her from execution and allowed her to provide testimony against the alleged drug smuggling ring responsible for her situation. Her return to the Philippines is seen as a crucial step towards seeking justice.The Department of Justice has stated that Veloso’s presence will pave the way for filing charges against her alleged recruiters. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has welcomed Veloso’s return, emphasizing the importance of family reunification during the holiday season. He extended his gratitude to the Indonesian government for their compassion and understanding. Veloso expressed her heartfelt gratitude to God, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, and philippine President Marcos for enabling her return home. Speaking in Bahasa,the language she learned during her time in Indonesia,she said,”This is my new life which I’ll start again in the Philippines.” She acknowledged the complex emotions she felt, describing a mixture of happiness and sadness as she embarks on this new chapter. In a moving gesture, she sang parts of Indonesia’s national anthem and formed a heart shape with her hands before bidding farewell.## A Mother’s Triumph: Mary Jane Veloso Returns Home after 15 Years
**(INTRO MUSIC)**
**Host:** Welcome back to Archyde News.Today, we have a truly unforgettable story of resilience and the unwavering spirit of the human heart. Joining us is Mary Jane Veloso, who has returned to the Philippines after a grueling 15 years overseas. Mary Jane, welcome home.
**Mary jane Veloso:** Thank you. It feels so good to be back on Philippine soil.
**Host:** I can only imagine the emotions you must be experiencing right now. After so long,how does it feel to be finally reunited with your family and loved ones?
**Mary Jane:** (with tears glistening in her eyes) it’s overwhelming,truly. There are no words to describe the joy of seeing my sons again, of being able to hold them close. Fifteen years is a very long time to be away from the people you love most, but their love has kept me going through the darkest times.
**Host:** Your journey has been a long and arduous one. You were wrongfully accused and sentenced to death in Indonesia for drug trafficking charges. Can you tell us a little about that experience?
**Mary jane:** (pausing to compose herself) It was a nightmare. I was a simple domestic worker who was deceived and used as a drug mule without my knowledge. Being in prison, knowing I was innocent, was terrifying. The thought of leaving my sons behind without a mother was unbearable.
**Host:** What kept you going during those years?
**Mary Jane:** Hope.The hope that justice would prevail, that the truth would come out. The unwavering support of my family, the Filipino community, and the Philippine government never wavered, and that gave me strength.
**Host:** Your case drew international attention and sparked a global movement advocating for your release. How did that feel?
**Mary Jane:** I am so grateful for the support of everyone who fought for my freedom. Knowing that so many people believed in me, prayed for me, and advocated for my return home gave me the courage to persevere.
**Host:** Now that you’re back, what are your plans?
**Mary Jane:** My priority is to spend time with my family, to cherish every precious moment lost. But I also want to use my story to raise awareness about the struggles faced by overseas Filipino workers, and to fight against human trafficking.
**Host:** Your strength and resilience are truly inspiring, Mary Jane.Welcome home.
**Mary Jane:** Thank you.
**(OUTRO MUSIC)**
## A New Life Begins: Mary Jane Veloso Returns Home After 15 Years
**(This interview was conducted by Archyde’s Senior editor, Sarah Dela Cruz)**
**Sarah:**
Welcome home, Mary Jane. It’s an honor to speak with you.
After 15 grueling years, you are finally back on Philippine soil. How does it feel to be home?
**Mary jane:**
(Emotional) It feels… surreal. There are still no words to describe my overwhelming joy. Seeing my sons again,embracing my parents… It’s a dream come true.
**Sarah:**
We can onyl imagine the pain and uncertainty you endured over these years.
Can you share a little about what kept you going?
**Mary Jane:**
My faith in God was my anchor. And the unwavering support of my family, friends, and all the Filipinos who never stopped fighting for my freedom.
Their belief in my innocence gave me strength when I felt like giving up.
**Sarah:**
Your case garnered international attention and sparked outrage when you were sentenced to death for drug trafficking.
**Mary Jane:**
(Softly) I maintain my innocence. I was a victim of deceit. My story is a warning to those who might be lured into similarly hazardous situations.
**Sarah:**
Now that you are back in the Philippines, what are your hopes for the future?
**Mary Jane:**
My biggest dream is to be finally reunited with my family, to live a normal life, and to help others who have been through similar experiences.
I also hope that justice will finally be served and that those responsible for my ordeal will be held accountable.
And of course, I pray for clemency, for the chance to be truly free from this burden.
**Sarah:**
The government has stated that you will serve the remainder of your sentence here in the Philippines.
Is there any message you would like to send to President Marcos regarding your plea for clemency?
**Mary Jane:**
I humbly ask for his mercy and understanding. I believe I have already paid a heavy price for a crime I did not commit.
I want a chance to rebuild my life, to contribute to society, and to be the mother my children deserve.
**Sarah:**
we’ve seen the incredible outpouring of support for you. What message do you have for those who never stopped believing in you?
**Mary Jane:**
Salamat. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your unwavering faith in me kept me going.
May my story be a testament to the power of hope and resilience.
**Sarah:**
Mary Jane Veloso, thank you for sharing your story. We wish you peace, healing, and a shining future.
**(End Interview)**
