House Speaker Martin Romualdez credited President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s diplomatic efforts in securing Mary Jane Veloso’s return to the Philippines on Wednesday.

In a statement, he said this reflects the “unwavering resolve” of the President to protect Filipinos wherever they are.

Romualdez described Veloso’s return as a moment of “profound relief”, as well as “immense joy”, for her family and the nation.

“Ang kwento ni Mary Jane ay isang malinaw na paalala sa atin ng mga panganib at sakripisyong kinakaharap ng ating mga kababayang nagtatrabaho sa ibang bansa (Mary Jane’s story is a clear reminder to us of the dangers and sacrifices faced by our countrymen working abroad),” he said.

Romualdez also pointed to the broader efforts of the Marcos administration to strengthen support systems for overseas Filipino workers and ensure their welfare and safety.

“Under his leadership, our government has reinforced its commitment to the rights and welfare of our OFWs,” Romualdez said, noting that the government has built stronger diplomatic ties to uphold the dignity of Filipino workers abroad.

In a message directed at Veloso, Romualdez said her return brings inspiration and hope to Filipinos.

“Maligayang pagbabalik sa ating bayan at sa piling ng iyong mga minamahal (Welcome back to our homeland and into the arms of your loved ones),” he said.

Dedication to welfare of OFWs

Meanwhile, Senate President Francis Escudero said Veloso’s return to the Philippines is a testament to President Marcos’ dedication to the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

“I hope that Mary Jane’s repatriation is only the first of many Filipinos similarly situated in various parts of the world,” Escudero said in a separate statement.

“This proves that PBBM and his government truly care for our OFWs, who are in a different land and away from their family, comfort zones, and surroundings,” he added.

Escudero likewise emphasized the government’s role in safeguarding OFWs and ensuring they feel the “long arm of government” protecting them.

‘Mark of friendship’

In a statement, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo said Veloso’s successful transfer was a “significant achievement for the bilateral relations and a mark of friendship” between the Philippines and Indonesia.

“We would, therefore, like to take this moment to reiterate our sincerest thanks to the Indonesian government for this humanitarian action. Their generosity has made this momentous day of Ms. Veloso’s return to the Philippines, possible,” he said.

Manalo said the Indonesia government’s “sincere and decisive action” allowed Veloso to be home before Christmas.

He thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his approval of the DFA’s recommendations and guidance for the welfare of the Filipina.

He also acknowledged the Department of Justice and Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Gina Jamoralin and her team, for the successful repatriation.

Veloso was turned over to Philippine officials on Tuesday evening and returned to the country accompanied by officials from the DFA, National Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Immigration and Bureau of Corrections on Wednesday morning.

Photo credit: Facebook/officialbureauofimmigration