Sixteen Filipinos are still under police custody in Qatar after allegedly taking part in a political demonstration last week, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo de Vega confirmed the latest development, saying four of the original 20 detainees have already been released. Among those freed were three teenagers.
“Three doon (sa mga protesters are) minors, mga teenager[s], pinalaya na,” De Vega said in a Manila Bulletin report. “Their mother, though, is still in custody ng mga pulis.”
The protest is reportedly linked to the arrest and deportation of former President Rodrigo Duterte to The Hague. Under Qatari law, public demonstrations without government approval are prohibited.
Investigations are ongoing, and the outcome could lead to either the release or prosecution of those involved.
“As far as I know, iimbestigahan. Kapag satisfied ‘yung pulis, papalayain, kung hindi, they will be charged,” De Vega explained.
If charged, the Filipinos could face up to three years in detention. However, De Vega assured that the Philippine government is prepared to provide legal assistance.
The Philippine Embassy in Doha earlier confirmed the detention of the 20 individuals. De Vega noted that the women were already interrogated, and the men are expected to undergo questioning soon. The ongoing Ramadan season may delay the legal proceedings due to shorter working hours.
“Wala pa tayong mare-repatriate from Qatar kasi nasa police custody pa ‘yan. Ang gusto natin mapalaya at makabalik [sila] sa trabaho,” he added, expressing hope that they will be released and only fined.
