DFA: Mary Jane Veloso's turnover an 'achievement' for PH, Indonesia

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday said Mary Jane Veloso’s repatriation was a positive development in the bilateral relations between the Philippines and Indonesia.

In a statement, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo expressed gratitude to the Indonesian government for its humanitarian action that led to Veloso’s return to the Philippines  ahead of the Christmas celebration.

“This is a significant achievement for the bilateral relations between the Philippines and Indonesia, a mark of the trust and friendship between our two nations,” he said.

Manalo also thanked President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for his approval of the recommendations regarding Veloso’s repatriation and his “steadfast guidance” for her welfare.

He also showed appreciation to the Department of Justice (DOJ) which worked closely with the DFA throughout the turnover process.

Veloso arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport via a Cebu Pacific commercial flight early Wednesday morning after nearly 15 years of detention in Indonesia for drug trafficking.

This came after Manila and Jakarta reached an agreement to transfer her to the Philippines.

Veloso, who was brought straight to the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City upon her arrival, has been appealing for clemency or pardon from Marcos.

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— RSJ, GMA Integrated News