The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that the Qatar government has already released one Filipino for participating in a political rally, while 19 others are still under Qatar police custody.
In an interview with Super Radyo dzBB on Sunday, March 30, DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said the Philippine Embassy in Qatar is coordinating with local officials to assist the detained Filipinos.
“Ayon sa ambassador natin sa Doha, Qatar, actually 20 (from 17). Tapos may isang na-release. Napayagan na makausap sila. Sinusubukan nating ma-release sila,” De Vega said.
He warned that if charges are filed, the Filipinos could face up to three years in prison, but assured that the embassy would provide legal assistance.
“Lahat ng klase ng political rally, bawal sa Qatar,” he said, referring to the country’s strict laws against public demonstrations.
While the DFA did not specify the nature of the rally, several reports suggested the detained Filipinos may have been protesting the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who marked his 80th birthday while detained at the Scheveningen Prison in The Hague.
Duterte is facing crimes against humanity charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC) over the thousands of killings during his administration’s anti-drug campaign. Supporters worldwide have held demonstrations demanding his release.
The Philippine Embassy in Qatar is closely monitoring the case and ensuring the welfare of the detained Filipinos. De Vega urged overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to respect host countries’ laws to avoid legal repercussions. (TCSP)
