Joselito Zapanta. Facebook photo
A Filipino worker has been executed in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, December 29, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.
The worker has been identified as Joselito Lidasan Zapanta who has been in prison for murder with robbery since April 13, 2010 was executed after the family of the victim refused to execute on Affidavit of Forgiveness (Tanazul) in exchange for blood money.
The family of his victim has demanded P48-million compensation but only P23-million was raised for Zapanta.
READ: Zapanta given another chance to raise blood money
“We offer our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones for their loss,” the DFA said through its Spokesman, Assistant Secretary Charles Jose.
Zapanta is survived by his father, mother, sister, and two children.
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“The Philippine Government has undertaken and exhausted all diplomatic and legal efforts, and extended consular and legal assistance to preserve the life of Mr. Zapanta. The Philippine Government provided the late Mr. Zapanta all necessary assistance and ensured that his legal rights were observed throughout the whole judicial process,” Jose added.
READ: PH negotiating to bring down Zapanta blood money
The government has arranged and funded the jail visits of Zapanta’s relatives at the Malaz Central Prison on Nov. 28 to Dec. 2, 2015, March 8, 2013 and November 2012.
Jose said the DFA shall continue to extend assistance to Zapanta’s family.
“We appeal to all our nationals overseas to follow the local laws of their host countries at all times and to avoid involvement in criminal activities,” he added.