Malacañang announced on Monday the release of 17 Filipinos arrested in Qatar for participating in a political demonstration, and that the charges filed against them have been dismissed.
In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro stated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. spoke with Qatar Ambassador to the Philippines Ahmed bin Saad Al Homidi earlier this morning.
Castro further stated that Ambassador Al Homidi shared that the Qatari authorities have dismissed the charges against the 17 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who were arrested on March 27 for illegal assembly.
The Qatari Ambassador pointed out that this development is indicative of the strong and lasting friendship between the two nations.
"Sinabi ni Qatari Ambassador na pinalaya na ang 17 na inaresto sa Qatar, at dinismiss na rin ang mga kaso laban sa kanila," said Castro.
"Ayon kay Ambassadro Al Homidi, ito raw ay repleksyon ng maganda at matatag na pagkakaibigan ng dalawang bansa," she added.
The Palace official highlighted that President Marcos has tasked the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) with ensuring the release of the said Filipinos.
Previously, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reported that the mentioned OFWs were granted provisional release.
Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier said it is prepared to assist the 17 Filipinos should they be deported.
