The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) clarified on Sunday that 20 Filipinos were arrested in Qatar for participating in an unauthorized political demonstration, correcting earlier reports that cited 17 arrests.
“According to our ambassador in Doha, Qatar, Ambassador Mardomel Celo Melicor, it was 20, then one was released. We were allowed to talk to them. We are trying to get them released,” said Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega.
De Vega added that if charges are filed, the Philippine Embassy in Qatar will provide legal assistance, as those involved could face up to three years of imprisonment.
The Philippine Embassy in Qatar confirmed that the arrests occurred on Friday due to “suspected unauthorized political demonstrations.”
The Embassy also reminded Filipinos to respect local laws prohibiting political rallies and public expressions of political grievances. “All kinds of political rallies are forbidden in Qatar,” De Vega emphasized.
Initial reports suggest the arrested Filipinos may have joined a demonstration protesting the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who recently turned 80 while in detention at the Scheveningen Prison in The Hague, Netherlands.
Meanwhile, the Embassy assured that it is coordinating with local authorities in Doha to provide for the basic needs and consular assistance of those detained.
“The Embassy is in touch with local authorities for the provision of necessary consular assistance to said nationals,” the Embassy said in a statement.