President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. extended his government’s gratitude to United Arab Emirates (UAE) President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for granting clemency to 115 Filipino convicts during the Holy Month of Ramadan and Eid-Al-Fitr.
In a statement released on late Saturday, Mr. Marcos said he was personally informed by the UAE Ambassador in Manila, Mohamed Obaid Alqataam Alzaabi, that 115 convicted Filipinos have been set free during this Ramadan and Eid-Al-Fitr season.
The chief executive also recalled how the UAE pardoned 143 Filipinos during last year’s Eid Al-Adha and 220 on their National Day.
He said this gesture reflects the strong ties between the Philippines and the UAE, emphasizing the deep bond shared by nearly one million Filipinos who have made the Emirates their home. He also underscored the warm friendship and mutual respect between himself and Sheikh Mohamed.
“On behalf of the Philippine government, we extend our sincerest thanks to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for this compassionate act,” the President said.
Mr. Marcos noted that the UAE’s act of kindness not only highlights its respect for humanitarian values but also brings immense relief and joy to the families of the pardoned individuals, many of whom have been separated for years.
“As the Philippines celebrates this momentous occasion, both nations reaffirm their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, ensuring that such acts of kindness pave the way for continued cooperation and understanding in the years to come,” he said.
The UAE Embassy in Manila officially communicated with the Department of Foreign Affairs-Office of the Middle East and African Affairs (OMEAA) on March 28, 2025, informing them of the royal pardon and requesting assistance in relaying the names of those pardoned.
Mr. Marcos thanked the UAE leader for the timely pardon, noting that it brings hope to the convicts’ families and signifies the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian values.
Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the Philippine Embassy, Consulate General, and Migrant Workers Offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai remain fully committed to ensuring the welfare of Filipino nationals in the UAE.
“The Embassy and the Consulate stand ready to extend the necessary assistance to facilitate the safe and expeditious return of those granted clemency,” it said in a statement.
For its part, the Embassy of the UAE in Manila requested assistance in relaying the names of Filipino convicts who were pardoned, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a separate statement.
It said the pardon would bring relief and joy among the families, many of whom have been separated from their loved ones for years.
“This royal pardon also underscores the importance of compassion and second chances in the spirit of Ramadan. It is a sign of the UAE government’s high respect for President Marcos,” the PCO added.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Marcos thanks UAE for pardoning 115 Filipinos during Ramadan”