MANILA, Philippines — Seventeen overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) detained in Qatar have been granted provisional liberty as authorities continue their investigation, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said Thursday.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac reported the release following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to secure the immediate freedom of the arrested Filipinos.

No charges have been filed against the OFWs, but they remain under investigation for illegal assembly and gathering without a permit. Under Qatari law, the offense carries a penalty of six months to three years of imprisonment and a fine ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 Qatari riyals.

“We’re very, very thankful to the Qatari authorities and to the Qatari government for allowing the provisional release of the 17 OFWs as the investigations proceed. And as directed by the President, legal assistance and welfare assistance will continually be provided to the 17 OFWs,” Cacdac said.

Legal, welfare support assured

Cacdac assured continued legal and welfare support for the OFWs, including medical assistance to ensure their well-being.

“Right now, they (17 OFWs) are just given time to again rest and spend time and message and communicate with their families. But in due time, of course, Ambassador Mardomel Celo Melicor, and Labor Attaché Edward Ferrer will be meeting them for the preparation of the best legal defense,” he said.

The DMW also reminded OFWs to observe and respect the laws of their host countries.

“Paalala po sa ating mga kababayan na sundin ang batas ng host countries. Maaaring sa Qatar, aresto ang kinaratnan. But remember, hindi kailangang may pag-aresto para sumunod sa batas,” Cacdac said.

DMW, embassy monitoring case

The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Doha, in coordination with the Philippine Embassy, is prepared to provide further assistance, including helping the OFWs maintain their employment status.

“The message this sends is care for our people, for our OFWs. That’s the first thing in the President’s mind. Parati niya kaming pinaaalahanan tungkol sa pangangalaga ng ating mga OFWs. Lalo na sa panahon ng matindi nilang pangangailangan,” Cacdac said.