Manila: The Philippine government has successfully secured the provisional release of 17 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), 12 men and 5 women, who were arrested and detained in Qatar for illegal protest. In a Palace press briefing, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac announced the development, emphasizing swift action by the government in response to the situation.
According to Philippines News Agency, upon learning of the incident, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. immediately ordered the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Philippine Embassy in Doha to intervene and provide legal and welfare assistance. Cacdac shared that the Qatari authorities facilitated the provisional release of the detained OFWs in two batches, with the males released around 2:30 a.m. and the females around 4 a.m. Qatari time, pending investigation.
Cacdac detailed that approximately 20 OFWs were initially arrested at a resort in Doha on March 27, including three minors who were released immediately. However, the 17 OFWs remain under investigation and are barred from leaving Qatar until the case is resolved. He confirmed that no formal charges have been filed yet, and the Philippine government is committed to providing ongoing legal support if the case progresses.
Cacdac emphasized that the President's directive includes ensuring that the OFWs can return to their respective homes in Doha while receiving continuous legal assistance as needed. The Philippine Embassy in Doha, led by Ambassador Mardomel Celo Melicor, along with Labor Attach© Edward Ferrer and the Embassy's Qatari legal counsel, has been instrumental in offering legal guidance and conducting welfare visits to ensure the safety and fair treatment of the detained individuals.
The Secretary also reiterated the importance of observing local laws, particularly those regarding public gatherings, as the investigation continues. Despite the legal hurdles, Cacdac assured that the Marcos administration remains dedicated to protecting and supporting all OFWs.
He concluded by affirming the government's commitment to expedite the resolution of the case, ensuring the well-being and protection of the OFWs involved.
