Malacañang is carefully reviewing the legal provisions that could determine whether President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may grant executive clemency to convicted drug trafficker Mary Jane Veloso, following recent developments in her case.

During a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government is studying the agreements and discussions between the Philippines and Indonesia related to Veloso’s situation, particularly in light of her transfer of custody to Philippine authorities.

Castro emphasized that the power to grant executive clemency rests solely with the President as a constitutional prerogative. However, she noted that the Palace cannot yet confirm whether there are legal limitations or conditions that may affect the President’s ability to exercise this authority in Veloso’s case.

President Marcos had earlier clarified that Indonesia did not impose any conditions when Veloso’s custody was transferred to the Philippines. Despite this, Castro said legal experts are still examining whether existing laws, international agreements, or judicial considerations could influence the possibility of clemency.

The review includes assessing the legal framework surrounding Veloso’s conviction abroad and how it interacts with Philippine laws on executive clemency, as well as the implications of her current custodial status under Philippine jurisdiction.

Veloso was arrested in Indonesia in 2010 for drug trafficking and was sentenced to death. Her execution was later postponed after she was identified as a potential victim of human trafficking. Her case has since drawn sustained diplomatic, legal, and humanitarian attention from both governments.

Malacañang assured the public that any decision regarding executive clemency will be based on a thorough legal review and in accordance with both domestic law and international obligations.