Marcos grants pardon to Mary Jane Veloso; questions arise over new impeachment voting rule

MANILA, Philippines — INQToday’s noontime broadcast for Friday, September 25, 2024, featured three significant stories: First, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has granted an absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso. Veloso had spent nearly 15 years imprisoned on a drug smuggling conviction before continuing her detention in the Philippines. Her case gained international attention, particularly in Indonesia where she faced a death sentence. This pardon is seen as a significant development in her long-standing situation. Second, former Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez has raised questions regarding a new voting rule for impeachment convictions. This rule potentially impacts the process by which impeachment cases are decided, sparking debate over its transparency and fairness. Third, the broadcast also covered other pertinent news items shaping the national discourse. These developments highlight key movements within the Philippine judicial and political systems, drawing considerable attention to their future implications.