Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino national on Indonesia’s death row for drug trafficking, is set to return to her home country before Christmas 2024, Coordinating Minister for Law and Human Rights Yusril Ihza Mahendra announced on Friday (6/12/2024).

“God willing, the transfer will take place before 25 December 2024,” he said during a press conference following the signing of an agreement with Philippine Deputy Justice Minister Raul T. Vasquez in Jakarta.

The repatriation follows extensive diplomatic talks. “

This is not a pardon or clemency. We are transferring her custody back to the Philippines while maintaining the Indonesian court’s ruling,” Minister Yusril explained, as quoted by antaranews.com.

The Philippines has agreed to all terms outlined by Indonesia, including respecting the death sentence. However, decisions regarding Mary Jane’s future, such as possible clemency, will rest with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Deputy Justice Minister Vasquez thanked Indonesia for facilitating the transfer, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. 

(mg/inp/pr/nm)