The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) clarified on Sunday that 20 Filipinos—not 17 as earlier reported—were apprehended in Qatar for taking part in an unauthorized political protest.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said during a radio interview that one individual has since been released, and Philippine officials in Doha are working to secure the freedom of the others. He also confirmed that consular staff have been able to speak with those still in custody.
Should formal charges be filed, the DFA assured that legal support will be provided. The detained Filipinos could face up to three years in prison under Qatari law.
The protest reportedly stemmed from support for former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who recently turned 80 while in detention at the Scheveningen Prison in the Netherlands. Duterte is currently facing charges before the International Criminal Court related to alleged human rights violations during his anti-drug campaign.
The Philippine Embassy in Qatar reminded all Filipinos to strictly follow local regulations, especially laws banning public demonstrations.
“All forms of political rallies are prohibited in Qatar,” de Vega emphasized.
