Calls are mounting for the Philippine government to step up efforts in assisting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) detained in Qatar following a protest on March 28 believed to be politically motivated.
Labor leader and senatorial candidate Leody de Guzman appealed to both the Philippine Embassy in Doha and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to exert all efforts to help secure the release of the detained Filipinos.
In an official statement, the Philippine Embassy in Qatar confirmed the arrests, stating, “The Embassy is in touch with local authorities for the provision of necessary consular assistance to said nationals.”
The embassy also reiterated its earlier reminder to Filipinos in Qatar to abide by the host country’s laws, particularly in relation to mass gatherings and political expression.
The arrests reportedly occurred during demonstrations held in connection with the 80th birthday of former President Rodrigo Duterte, with some OFW groups calling for a symbolic protest against his detention at the International Criminal Court.
Philippine officials, including the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), continue to coordinate with Qatari authorities, assuring the public that legal aid and support are being provided to the affected individuals.
