On November 26, 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss areas of cooperation across various sectors. (Photo courtesy of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan “X”)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday extended his gratitude to the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for pardoning 220 Filipinos detained in the Middle Eastern country.

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Earlier in the day, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said the pardon was granted in celebration of the UAE’s 53rd National Day, which was observed on December 2.

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READ: UAE pardons 220 Filipinos – DFA

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In his statement, Marcos said, “This decision, in addition to the one hundred and forty-three Filipinos who were granted pardon during Eid al-Adha, is proof of the strong ties between our countries.

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“We extend, of course, our heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whom I also had the honor to meet, for this very compassionate gesture,” he added.

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The Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi are now processing the documentary and administrative requirements for the return of the pardoned Filipinos.

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In June 2024, 143 Filipinos detained in the UAE were also issued release orders during Eid al-Adha.

READ: Nothing final yet on Veloso’s potential pardon: Palace

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