MANILA – The Philippine government has assured support for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) detained in Qatar after participating in an unauthorized protest calling for the release of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
According to Malacañang, the children of some detained protesters are now under the care of their parents’ trusted friends in Qatar.
“Our embassy has requested if they can take care of the children,” said Presidential Communications Office (PCO) official Claire Castro in a press briefing.
Some parents left their children with trusted friends while they remain in police custody, she added.
Three minors released, 16 Filipinos still detained
Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega confirmed that three Filipino minors who participated in the demonstration have been released, but their mother remains detained. Initially, 20 Filipinos were arrested, with one already freed earlier, leaving 16 still in custody.
The protest took place on March 28, Duterte’s 80th birthday, when his supporters organized gatherings in the Philippines and abroad. In Qatar, 19 Filipinos were arrested for violating Law No. 18 of 2004, which prohibits unauthorized protests.
Unlike in Europe, where Duterte supporters have held rallies in The Hague to protest his arrest, Qatar has strict rules against public demonstrations, especially for non-citizens.
Investigation ongoing, no immediate repatriation
The Philippine government continues to monitor the situation and provide assistance to the detainees. Philippine Ambassador to Qatar Mardomel Melicor clarified that bail is not an option under Qatar’s legal system. Authorities will either release the detainees after investigations or keep them in custody if charges are filed.
De Vega explained that the detainees are being questioned about whether their protest aimed to disrupt Qatar, harm diplomatic ties with the Philippines, or embarrass the host country.
“We hope authorities will see this as a harmless show of support for the former president and release them,” De Vega said, adding that the process may take longer due to the Ramadan season when work hours are shorter.
The Philippine Embassy in Doha is working with lawyers and consuls to negotiate for their release or an alternative penalty, such as a fine. If formal charges are filed, the detainees could face up to three years in prison.
A warning for Filipinos in the Middle East
De Vega reminded Filipinos working in Qatar and other Middle Eastern countries to avoid political demonstrations, as these are strictly regulated.
“The Middle East has different laws. You are there to work, not to risk your job and livelihood,” he warned.
Duterte is currently detained in the Netherlands following an arrest order from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity related to his war on drugs. His supporters worldwide continue to demand his release.
The Philippine government is committed to assisting detained OFWs in Qatar while urging Filipinos abroad to remain mindful of the laws in their host countries.