THE PHILIPPINE government should consider adopting a national policy on prisoner exchange, with the primary objective of bringing home overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are incarcerated abroad.
This initiative could greatly enhance the welfare of our fellow Filipinos and strengthen our diplomatic relationships with other nations.
Key Points Supporting the Proposal
1. Case of Mary Jane Veloso – Considering the recent developments in Mary Jane Veloso’s case, we should consider offering Indonesia the return of one Indonesian prisoner currently in Philippine custody as a gesture of goodwill. This act could pave the way more future exchanges.
2. Continuing Program – Establishing prisoner exchange as a national policy would enable us to systematically bring home Filipino prisoners from abroad. This program can be institutionalized as an ongoing effort by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and/or the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
3. International Precedents – The recent prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, even amidst ongoing conflict, demonstrates the feasibility and value of such programs. This underscores the potential for similar arrangements in peacetime to benefit our citizens.
4. Domestic Resources for Exchange – There are currently many foreign prisoners under the custody of the Bureau of Immigration (BI), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). These individuals could potentially be exchanged for Filipino prisoners abroad.
5. Building a Database – As part of the preparatory steps for this program, the Philippines should establish a comprehensive database of Filipinos incarcerated abroad. This database would facilitate negotiations and ensure that we prioritize cases effectively based on humanitarian and legal considerations.
6. Humanitarian and Diplomatic Benefits – Such a policy would not only provide a lifeline for incarcerated OFWs but also strengthen our diplomatic ties with host countries by fostering mutual respect and collaboration.
Recommended Actions
1. Instruct the DFA and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to draft a comprehensive framework for a prisoner exchange program, including protocols for identifying eligible individuals and negotiating terms with other nations.
2. Direct the relevant agencies, such as BI, BuCor, and Burau of Jail Management and Penology, to compile a list of foreign nationals in Philippine custody who could be considered for exchange.
3. Establish an inter-agency task force to oversee the implementation of the program and ensure its alignment with international laws and treaties. This initiative aligns with our commitment to protecting the welfare of Filipinos overseas and reinforcing the government’s dedication to inclusive and humane policies./PN
