- 220 Filipinos Freed in UAE Pardon
- UAE's National Day Brings Joy to 220 Filipino Detainees
- Marcos Diplomacy Secures Release of 220 Filipinos in UAE
MANILA – Over 200 Filipinos detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) received pardons in a gesture of goodwill marking the Gulf State's 53rd National Day, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Monday.
This act of clemency, a tradition on the UAE's National Day (December 2nd), saw 220 Filipinos released from detention. The pardon, officially announced on December 26th, 2024, underscores the strong ties between the Philippines and the UAE.
The DFA emphasized the significance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan in November, directly contributing to this positive outcome. "It is the direct result of President Marcos' meeting with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan," the DFA stated.
The DFA, in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, is working swiftly to facilitate the return of these individuals to the Philippines. This involves processing necessary documentation and navigating administrative procedures.
While the specific offenses leading to their detention were not disclosed, it's worth noting that this isn't the first instance of such pardons. In June 2023, 143 Filipinos were similarly pardoned during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.
This act of leniency by the UAE government not only provides a second chance for these Filipinos but also further strengthens the diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
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