President Marcos on Tuesday conveyed his country’s gratitude to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) leadership for pardoning 143 Filipino nationals and paving the way for their homecoming.

In a conversation with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed,  Mr. Marcos said the clemency extended would allow Filipinos facing legal issues in the Emirates to return home and avoid further penalties.

“It is always inspiring to hear how our Filipino workers continue to excel and make a positive contribution in the UAE,” the President said.

“I expressed my gratitude for the kindness extended to them, particularly their generous pardon of 143 Filipinos, which has brought relief to many families,” he added.

The pardon highlights the strong diplomatic ties between the Philippines and the UAE, a relationship built on mutual respect and shared values, the chief executive noted.

Mr. Marcos also said he is profoundly grateful for the Emirates’ humanitarian assistance following the recent typhoons and floods that hit the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada also extended his “heartfelt gratitude” to the Emirati leader for his “benevolent decision to grant pardon to 143 of our kababayans [compatriots].”

“This act of compassion and understanding brings immense relief to the families of those pardoned and strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “PBBM lauds humanitarian assistance of UAE to PH typhoon victims.”