By Connie Calipay
LEGAZPI CITY – Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and immigrants from Catanduanes province have mixed reactions over the impending transfer of Mary Jane Veloso to the Philippines.
In an interview on Monday, Nanette Balin Rigos, a teacher in Indonesia, described the decision of the Indonesian government as a “gesture of goodwill that provides hope to Mary Jane and her family.”
“As a Filipina living in Indonesia for nearly 19 years, I am deeply moved by this development. Mary Jane has shown remarkable resilience throughout her ordeal and has embraced Indonesian culture, even learning the local language. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Prabowo and the people of Yogyakarta for their kindness and support during her imprisonment,” she said.
Rigos said allowing Veloso to return to the Philippines reflects the strength of cooperation between the two nations.
“This act of compassion reflects the strength of cooperation between our nations and reminds us of the enduring power of hope, prayers, and unity,” she added.
Mariefe Leonardo, an OFW in Singapore for 12 years, expressed happiness about Veloso’s impending return.
“Her family can visit her even though she is still in prison. Thanks to the Marcos administration for doing its best to provide her a second chance,” she said.
Mary Antonette Raquid, an OFW in Singapore for over two years and now living in the United States, was also happy that Veloso would be back home.
However, she noted that moving her to Philippine custody may not significantly change her situation since Indonesian law would still apply.
“I know it will make a difference in terms of her safety and security, as well as allowing her family to visit her. The Philippine government cannot grant her executive clemency due to international relations and agreements with Indonesia, but I hope that our government will support her family or provide ways to alleviate poverty,” she said.
Ola Mae Tuplano-Vargas, an OFW for 10 years who is now in California, stated that the Indonesian government allowed Veloso’s return for humanitarian reason.
“It seems that they just want her home so she can be closer to her family, which is humanitarian in a way,” she said.
Marilou Estonactoc, currently in Canada, was hoping that the Indonesian government would grant her pardon and allow Jane to be a free woman once she is back in the Philippines.
Zaldy Tejerero, a former OFW who is now an American citizen in Florida, emphasized that the government must consider “who would benefit most from this situation: the law-abiding citizens of the Philippines or those involved in illegal drug trades.” (PNA)
