Mandaluyong:President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is contemplating the possibility of granting an absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso on humanitarian grounds, as announced by Malaca±ang.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed this development after Bataan Representative Albert Garcia mentioned during the budget deliberations for the Office of the President that Malaca±ang is 'seriously considering' this action for Veloso.
The pardon consideration is reportedly based on humanitarian reasons. While there is no definite timeline, Castro hinted that it could happen before Christmas but emphasized that the final decision rests with the President.
Garcia suggested that an announcement might be made soon. Veloso was convicted of drug trafficking in Indonesia in 2010 and sentenced to death. After nearly 15 years in custody, she was repatriated to the Philippines in December 2024 and is now detained at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong.
Castro noted that the Philippine government does not need Indonesia's approval for granting the pardon. This development follows previous appeals by Veloso and her family for clemency, which were to be considered by President Marcos and legal experts.
