Filipinos detained in Qatar over ‘unauthorized’ March 28 protest

Flags of the Philippines and Qatar. INQUIRER STOCK PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — A number of Filipinos were detained by authorities in Qatar over suspected political protest on Friday, March 28, the Philippine Embassy in Qatar said.

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“The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Doha is aware that several Filipino nationals have been arrested and detained early today, 28 March 2025, for suspected unauthorized political demonstrations in Qatar,” the embassy said.

Previously, the embassy “strongly advised” Filipinos to respect the local law of Qatar regarding mass demonstrations in the country.

“The Embassy is in touch with local authorities for the provision of necessary consular assistance to said nationals,” it added.

The DFA did not provide details.

The arrest came amid simultaneous rallies held by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) to mark the 80th birthday of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who was ordered detained by the International Criminal Court over alleged crimes against humanity committed during his administration’s drug war.

OFW groups supporting Duterte also launched a “zero remittance week” to show their support for Duterte.

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The drug war claimed at least 6,000 lives, according to official government data.

However, human rights watchdogs and the ICC prosecutor estimated the death toll to be between 12,000 and 30,000 from 2016 to 2019, and they said many of these incidents were extrajudicial killings.

Duterte was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on March 11, and detained at Villamor Air Base the same day.

He had his pretrial hearing on March 14. The confirmation of charges is scheduled for September 23, and he may appeal for an interim release before that date.