By Marita Moaje | Philippine News Agency
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac on Tuesday said Mary Jane Veloso’s sister, Maritess, returned to the Philippines from Saudi Arabia on Nov. 29.
“Yes, nakauwi na si Maritess, and we’re working closely also with our MWO [Migrant Workers Office] in Al Khobar kung saan hinahabol pa rin ’yong claims niya,” Cacdac said at the launch of the Overseas Labor Market Situationer (OLMS) in Makati City.
Maritess earlier asked the DMW to help her return to the Philippines, claiming she was sexually abused by her Saudi Arabian employer.
Upon her arrival, Maritess received financial assistance from the DMW, Cacdac said.
“We are ensuring that Maritess is well supported as she settles back home. Her welfare, as well as that of her family, remains a priority,” Cacdac said.
He also said Maritess’ family will also receive medical assistance from the OFW Hospital in Pampanga province, especially for her grandchild, who was born with a blood infection.
Meanwhile, Cacdac said Mary Jane’s parents, Celia and Cesar, received another round of financial assistance during their visit to the DMW main office in Mandaluyong City last Sunday.
He said the DMW also pledged additional financial assistance to improve the family’s home in Nueva Ecija, which was constructed through the support of the late DMW Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople.
He is hoping that this assistance will significantly improve the family’s living conditions.
Cacdac said the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Justice are working on Mary Jane’s possible transfer to the Philippines from Indonesia.
Mary Jane has been detained in Indonesia since 2010 after being arrested on drug trafficking charges.
