We welcome BuCor’s initiative to improve the conditions of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) through livelihood programs, such as Project ARTE, and their recognition of Mary Jane Veloso’s skills and potential to contribute to such efforts. It is a testament to Mary Jane’s resilience and her desire to remain productive, even under such difficult circumstances.
However, while we appreciate efforts to empower PDLs, the ultimate empowerment for Mary Jane lies in her freedom. Mary Jane has already suffered immeasurably for almost 15 years. Her story is one of betrayal and survival, and it should compel us to act with urgency and compassion.
The question is not whether Mary Jane will stay long at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) or whether she will contribute to these livelihood programs; it is whether justice will finally prevail for her.
We remain hopeful that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will heed the calls for absolute pardon and release Mary Jane. As her counsel, we reiterate our appeal to the President: grant her the absolute pardon she so richly deserves.
Mary Jane’s involvement in programs like Batik weaving can take on an even greater meaning if she is allowed to teach and inspire others as a free woman, using her story to help prevent other victims of trafficking from suffering the same fate. Her freedom will be a victory not just for her, but for all victims of human trafficking who continue to fight for justice.
We call on the public to remain vigilant and to continue to advocate for Mary Jane’s freedom. #
Reference:
Atty. Josalee Deinla
NUPL Secretary General
+639174316396
