17 Arrested Filipinos in Qatar Granted Provisional Release

Seventeen overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) arrested in Qatar have been granted provisional release, pending an investigation by Qatari authorities, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac announced Thursday.

No charges have been filed, but the OFWs remain under investigation for illegal assembly and gathering without a permit, offenses that carry penalties of six months to three years in prison and fines ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 Qatari riyals.

“We’re very very thankful to the Qatari authorities and to the Qatari government for allowing the provisional release of the 17 OFWs as the investigations proceed. And as directed by the President, legal assistance and welfare assistance will continually be provided to the 17 OFWs,” Cacdac said.

The DMW is ensuring that the OFWs receive legal representation, welfare support, and medical aid to safeguard their well-being.

“Right now, they (17 OFWs) are just given time to again rest and spend time and message and communicate with their families. But in due time, of course, Ambassador Mardomel Celo Melicor, and Labor Attaché Edward Ferrer will be meeting them for the preparation of the best. legal defense,” Cacdac added.

Cacdac also reminded OFWs worldwide to respect and follow the laws of their host countries.

“Paalala po sa ating mga kababayan na sundin ang batas ng host countries. Maaaring sa Qatar, aresto ang kinaratnan. But remember, hindi kailangang may pag aresto para sumunod sa batas,” he said.

The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Doha, Qatar, in coordination with the Philippine Embassy, stands ready to assist the OFWs, particularly in preserving their employment.

“The message this sends is care for our people, for our OFWs. That’s the first thing in the President’s mind. Parati niya kaming pinaaalahanan tungkol sa pangangalaga ng ating mga OFWs. Lalo na sa panahon ng matindi nilang pangangailangan,” Cacdac said.