Manila, Sept. 23 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is considering granting absolute pardon to Mary Jane Veloso on humanitarian grounds, Malacanang said Wednesday.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed the development after Bataan Rep. Albert Garcia said during deliberations on the proposed 2027 budget of the Office of the President that Malacanang is "seriously considering" granting Veloso an absolute pardon.

Castro said the consideration is anchored on humanitarian grounds.

Asked if the pardon could be granted before Christmas, Castro said it could come earlier but declined to give a definite timeline.

"Baka mas maaga. Let us see. Hayaan natin ang Pangulo magsalita, (It could be earlier. Let us see. Let's leave that to the ...