How Mary Jane Veloso’s case exposes gaps in Filipino migrant protection

Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipino trafficking victim, has been released after 16 years of detention, a development migrant rights advocates consider a significant victory. Veloso was granted an absolute pardon by the Philippine President, allowing her freedom from the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City. Her case, however, highlights ongoing dangers faced by vulnerable Filipino workers abroad, particularly after she narrowly avoided execution in Indonesia years prior. The article suggests her release underscores systemic issues in protecting overseas Filipino workers.