The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Jeddah has issued a stern reminder to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Saudi Arabia to strictly adhere to the country’s laws regarding homosexuality. In a recent Facebook post, the MWO emphasized the need for OFWs to exercise caution and follow local regulations to avoid legal trouble.
“Straight to the point po. Bawal talaga ang GAY sa KSA. Kaya ang mga gay ay itinatago ang sexual preference nila,” the post began, setting a direct tone regarding the country’s strict stance on homosexuality under Sharia law. Saudi Arabia is known for enforcing severe penalties for those found violating these laws, including imprisonment and deportation.
The advisory also highlighted the risks of non-compliance, particularly for gay OFWs. “Kung ikaw ay gay at nandito ka sa Saudi, itago mo yan, please. Huwag mag damit ng pambabae at huwag mag make up. Hindi po puwede na ang batas ang sumunod sa gusto natin. Tayo dapat ang susunod sa batas ng kinaroroonan natin,” the post urged.
According to the MWO, recent incidents involving OFWs detained at the Shumaisy immigration deportation center have underscored the consequences of breaching these laws. “Nadeport na kamakailan ang ilang OFWs na nakapiit sa immigration deportation center ng Shumaisy. Ang problema, pinalitan naman ng mga bagong huli na gays at kinasuhan sila di umano ng immorality at prostitusyon,” the office revealed, indicating that accusations extend beyond homosexuality to alleged immorality and prostitution.
The advisory closed with a reminder to respect Saudi Arabia’s cultural and legal frameworks. “Mga kapatid, hindi po ito Pilipinas. Saudi po ito at igalang natin ang kanilang kultura at batas para makaiwas sa problema,” the post stated, urging OFWs to prioritize their safety and avoid causing distress to their families due to legal troubles.
Saudi Arabia remains one of the top destinations for OFWs, with over 433,000 Filipino workers residing in the Kingdom as of 2019.
