House Speaker Martin Romualdez has praised President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his diplomatic initiatives that facilitated the return of Mary Jane Veloso to the Philippines from Indonesia. On December 18, 2024, Veloso was reunited with her children at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City, marking a significant moment of relief and joy for her family and the nation. Romualdez highlighted the President’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Filipinos worldwide, emphasizing that Veloso’s story underscores the perils and sacrifices endured by Filipinos working abroad. He also acknowledged the Marcos administration’s efforts to bolster support systems for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), ensuring their welfare and safety through strengthened diplomatic relations. In a heartfelt message, Romualdez welcomed Veloso back to the Philippines, expressing hope and inspiration for all Filipinos. Senate President Francis Escudero echoed these sentiments, viewing Veloso’s return as a testament to President Marcos’ dedication to OFWs and hoping it would be the first of many such repatriations. Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo described Veloso’s transfer as a milestone in Philippine-Indonesian relations, thanking the Indonesian government for their humanitarian gesture that allowed Veloso to return home before Christmas. Manalo also recognized the efforts of the Department of Justice and the Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia, Gina Jamoralin, in achieving this successful repatriation.
House Speaker Lauds President Marcos’ Diplomacy in Veloso’s Repatriation
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