Filipinos arrested in Qatar over suspected ‘unauthorized’ rallies

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, Philippine News Agency

“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,” it said in its latest advisory. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – The Philippine Embassy in Doha on Friday night confirmed that “several Filipino nationals” were arrested over suspected “unauthorized” political demonstrations in Qatar.

“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,” it said in its latest advisory.

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

As of this posting, the embassy or the Department of Foreign Affairs has yet to provide official details and the number of Filipinos arrested.

On March 13, the embassy issued an advisory reminding all Filipino nationals to respect local laws and customs relating to mass demonstrations and expressions of political grievances.

It did not elaborate or provide specific context on its issuance of the initial advisory, but it came days after former president Rodrigo Duterte was arrested by the International Criminal Court.

Certain overseas groups have earlier organized rallies and even vowed to mount a zero-remittance week as a show of support for Duterte.