Marcos assures Mary Jane Veloso's safety, welfare in PH

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. assured Wednesday that the safety of Filipino drug convict Mary Jane Veloso is a priority of the government following her return to the Philippines after nearly 15 years behind bars in Indonesia.

"We assure the Filipino people that Ms. Veloso's safety and welfare is paramount and our agencies in the justice and law enforcement sector shall continue to ensure it, as our Indonesian counterparts have safeguarded it for so long," he said in a statement.

Veloso arrived at the Ninoy International Airport early today, Wednesday, following her detention in Indonesia due to drug trafficking.

She was then transferred to the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City, where she reunited with her family.

"The Philippine government welcomes the imminent transfer of Ms. Veloso which was made possible by our strong friendship and cooperation with the Indonesian government," Marcos said.

TIMELINE: Mary Jane Veloso, from OFW dreamer to death row inmate

Marcos also extended his gratitude to the Indonesian government and others who extended their assistance for Veloso's welfare.

Prior to leaving Indonesia on Tuesday, Veloso expressed hope that she will be granted clemency. Justice officials have said the decision is up to Marcos.

Meanwhile, Indonesia's senior minister for law and human rights affairs has said it would respect any decision made by the Philippines after Veloso returns home, including if she is given clemency. — VDV, GMA Integrated News