Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina who was sentenced to death in Indonesia for drug charges, is finally going home after more than a decade. Her journey began in 2010 when she was arrested for carrying a suitcase lined with 2.6 kilograms (5.7 pounds) of heroin. She was sentenced to death, sparking outrage in the Philippines, as her family and supporters insisted she was tricked by a drug syndicate.
On Wednesday, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced the breakthrough. After years of tough negotiations, Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto approved Mary Jane’s transfer back to the Philippines, marking the next chapter of her life.
“I’m so happy and thankful to have the chance to go home and be with my family again,” Mary Jane said in a heartfelt statement read by her prison warden, Evi Loliancy. Grateful to everyone who fought for her freedom, she shared her excitement to use skills she learned in prison, like cloth-dyeing, to support her family.
Her story began when she was lured by false promises of a job abroad as a domestic worker. Unknowingly, the suitcase given to her by her recruiter hid drugs. In 2015, she narrowly escaped execution when the Philippine government intervened, citing her as a victim of human trafficking.
This moment is a symbol of hope for many Filipinos who face hardships. President Marcos expressed gratitude to the Indonesian government, calling Mary Jane’s journey a story of survival and resilience—a reminder of the struggles people endure for their loved ones.
Mary Jane Veloso’s return is expected next month, bringing her closer to reuniting with her family and starting a new chapter of her life.
