Filipina worker raped in Saudi; Spanish national arrested – DFA

MANILA, Philippines — A Spanish national was arrested in Saudi Arabia for allegedly raping a Filipina household service worker there, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday.

Citing Consul General Edgar Badajos’ report, DFA said the suspect, who is a representative of the victim’s recruitment agency, allegedly raped the Filipina five times.

DFA added Saudi authorities arrested the suspect upon the request of Consulate officials.

The Spanish national allegedly raped the victim after he “took her from the female shelter of the Consulate after assuring the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) that she will be transferred to another employer.”

However, instead of transferring her to a new employer, the suspect brought the Filipina to a hotel and allegedly raped her, according to DFA.

“The victim was able to contact POLO, which came up with an alibi for the suspect to bring her back to the Consulate,” DFA said.

Meanwhile, the Consulate General said they are assisting the victim in filing the complaint against the Spanish national.

They also said they are helping the Filipina secure a medico legal endorsement as well as collect the necessary evidence from the management of the hotel were the rape allegedly happened. /kga