Every year on December 18th, the International Migrants Day is observed globally as a day of remembrance and action for millions of migrants worldwide. Economic and political challenges continue to compel many Filipinos to leave their homes in search of better opportunities.
Previous administrations, including the current one, have upheld and even expanded labor export policies. These policies have fostered a cycle of dependency on remittances while failing to address critical issues such as domestic job creation and national industrialization.
Workers are the ones who suffer the most from the increasing institutionalization of labor export. Many OFWs, like Mary Jane Veloso, who sought better prospects abroad due to limited opportunities at home, have tragically become victims of human trafficking.
According to PISTON National President and Makabayan senatorial candidate Mody Floranda, “Many jeepney operators are former migrants who emigrated to other countries and returned to the Philippines to become jeepney operators. However, like other migrants such as Mary Jane Veloso, they are exploited by the government and face additional hardships under the PUVMP.”
He further questions, “When we refer to them as ‘new heroes,’ is this truly what we expect from a hero? They treat them as criminals when in reality, they are victims of a corrupt system that exploits them.”
PISTON stands in solidarity with the Filipino people worldwide in calling for the immediate release of Mary Jane Veloso through absolute clemency.
Sign the petition for complete and absolute clemency for Mary Jane Veloso: https://change.org/clemency4maryjane