QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — Seventeen Filipino workers were released on April 7 after being detained on March 28 for allegedly holding an illegal assembly in Qatar to protest the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
During a Palace briefing, Communications Secretary Claire Castro confirmed that Ambassador Al Homidi announced the cases against the 17 individuals had been dismissed, highlighting that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. prioritized the swift resolution of the charges against the arrested individuals, countering criticisms that his administration was neglecting its responsibilities.
Castro emphasized this outcome as a testament to the strong relationship between the Philippines and Qatar.
“The release is a result of President Marcos’s directive and the Department of Migrant Workers’ efforts. This is good news as the government continues to provide quality benefits and jobs for our people,” she said in Filipino.
The group, consisting of 12 men and 5 women, has been granted provisional release but is not allowed to return to the Philippines until the investigation is complete.
“Just earlier, discussions led to this final decision, and we are pleased to share this good news with them. If they are watching the press briefing, they are likely overjoyed,” Castro said.
She added that the individuals are now free to work in Qatar, stating, “It’s their choice what they want to do next.” (JCO/PIA-NCR)
