THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) clarified on Sunday that 20 Filipinos were arrested in Qatar for holding an unauthorized political demonstration, correcting earlier reports that only 17 were detained.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega said one of the detained Filipinos had already been released, while 19 remain in police custody.
“Ayon sa ambassador natin sa Doha, Qatar, actually 20 [ang hinuli]. Tapos may isang na-release. Napayagan na makausap sila. Sinusubukan nating ma-release sila,” he said in a radio interview.
De Vega added that if charges were filed against the detained Filipinos, the Philippine Embassy in Qatar was prepared to provide legal assistance, as they could face up to three years in prison.
The rally, held on March 28, was not sanctioned by Qatari authorities.
The Philippine Embassy in Qatar reminded Filipinos to respect local laws and customs, especially regarding mass demonstrations and political expression.
“Lahat ng klase ng political rally, bawal sa Qatar,” De Vega stressed.
