Politics · Philippines Bureau
Palace Seriously Considers Absolute Pardon for Mary Jane Veloso
The Office of the President is exploring the possibility of granting an absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso on humanitarian grounds, according to Palace officials. The decision comes amid renewed calls for clemency for the Filipino domestic worker.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Palace has confirmed it is "seriously considering" granting an absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso based on humanitarian grounds, marking a potential development in the long-running case of the Filipino domestic worker.
Claire Castro, Press Officer of the Office of the President, disclosed the administration's stance during a Palace briefing. Castro did not provide specifics regarding the timeline for any decision or other procedural details related to the potential pardon.
The confirmation follows recent statements by Bataan Representative Albert Garcia, who had raised the matter earlier in the week. The case of Veloso has remained a subject of significant public and political attention in the Philippines, with advocates and lawmakers continuing to push for her release.
Veloso has been a focal point of humanitarian and diplomatic discussions, with various officials and organizations calling for her freedom. The Palace's move to formally acknowledge consideration of the pardon represents a notable step in addressing the case that has drawn sustained public concern.