Mary Jane Veloso Encourages Future OFWs to Avoid Illegal Recruitment for Safer Employment

MANILA, Philippines – Mary Jane Veloso, a former overseas Filipino worker (OFW), spoke out at a press conference in Manila, cautioning those interested in working abroad about the dangers of illegal recruitment. Her remarks came just days after her release from prison on October 1.

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At the press conference held at the Department of Justice, Veloso encouraged those looking to work overseas to avoid shortcuts and illegal means. Reflecting on her own harrowing experience, she stated, “Wala pong masama na mangarap. Wala pong masama na gusto natin maiahon ang ating mga pamilya sa hirap. Pero kung ako po, mabuti pong dumaan tayo sa legal na paraan.” (There’s nothing wrong with dreaming or wanting to lift your family out of poverty. But for me, it’s better to follow the legal route.)

Veloso's journey began when she intended to work in Malaysia but ended up imprisoned in Indonesia due to being misled by recruiters. She was caught with 2.6 kilograms of heroin hidden in her suitcase—a situation she insists was orchestrated by those who had recruited her.

During the press event, she warned against temptations that can mislead aspiring workers, saying, “Huwag po natin hayaan na maengganyo po tayo dahil po mayroong free visa, na kesyo ‘pag free visa madali lang makahanap ng trabaho, mabilis lang makaalis.” (Don’t be lured by offers of free visas, as they may suggest an easy job and quick departure.)

To protect themselves, she recommended that potential OFWs consult the Department of Migrant Workers for authentic job information and guidance.

Veloso expressed her hope that sharing her story could prevent others from suffering the same fate: “Sana po ‘tong pag-share ko po ng aking kaso ay maging inspirasyon po sa iba na para po hindi na po sila matulad sa akin, para wala na pong pangalawang Mary Jane na makakaranas ng ganito.” (I hope that by sharing my case, it serves as an inspiration for others to avoid suffering the same plight, so there will be no second Mary Jane.)

She received a last-minute reprieve from execution in Indonesia in 2015, and after her repatriation in December 2024, she remained detained in the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City, where she was eventually pardoned by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. nearly two years later, on September 25, 2026.

Pardon Background

The Philippines' anti-human trafficking laws enacted the principle of “non-punishment” for victims, which was crucial in Veloso's case. Justice Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty highlighted that while this was successful for Veloso, it shouldn't encourage others to fall victim to traffickers, stating, “We are really happy that Mary Jane returned home, but this should not be seen as a reason for others to follow her path.”

Discussions surrounding her pardon began in 2024 after her repatriation, with factors like her case circumstances and Indonesia’s viewpoint considered by officials.

Future Aspirations

The day following her release, the Department of Social Welfare and Development granted Veloso ₱30,000 in cash aid, along with smaller amounts for her family. Veloso expressed interest in starting a sari-sari store and ultimately wants to acquire farmland in Nueva Ecija, her home province, where agriculture is common.

She aims to not only rebuild her life but also contribute positively to her community. “Mayroon na po tayong social media din po ngayon. Kaya kahit nasa bahay, kung gusto mo talagang magbigay ng support sa kanila para hindi sila mapahamak, kaya naman po nating gawin ‘yon,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of using social media to help others. (We have social media now. Even if you’re at home, you can support others and help keep them safe.)

Mary Jane Veloso’s story serves as a potent reminder of the dangers faced by those seeking work abroad, highlighting the significance of legal pathways in ensuring safer employment opportunities.