The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has refuted circulating reports on social media claiming that detained Filipinos in Qatar could secure their release by posting bail worth P1 million.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega clarified that these reports are false, as the offenses committed by the arrested Filipinos are not eligible for bail.
De Vega explained that the only possible outcomes for the detainees are either release without charges or prolonged detention if formal charges are filed.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo Philippines, de Vega disclosed that 17 Filipinos remain in detention, while three minors have already been released.
He assured that the Philippine government is making every effort to assist the detainees, including deploying lawyers and labor attachés to provide legal support.
According to de Vega, the detained Filipinos could face up to three years in prison if Qatari authorities pursue legal action against them.
The individuals were arrested for allegedly organizing a political rally in Qatar, coinciding with the 80th birthday of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court.