MANILA — A Filipino overseas worker has been safely repatriated to the Philippines after being acquitted of death sentence charges in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant diplomatic success for the Philippine government.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac announced Thursday that the worker, from Mindanao, was released on June 10 following sustained legal and diplomatic efforts. The worker had been detained in Riyadh General Jail since September 2023 on drug-related charges and was initially convicted in September 2024.
“We’re happy that he will finally be reunited with his family,” Cacdac told reporters at the Mega Job Fair in Quezon City, emphasizing the collaborative effort between the DMW, Department of Foreign Affairs, and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
The successful intervention highlights the Philippine government’s commitment to protecting its overseas workers. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has consistently prioritized support for Filipino workers facing legal challenges abroad.
Cacdac revealed that approximately 60 Filipinos currently face death row sentences worldwide, with Malaysia and Saudi Arabia hosting the majority of these cases. He noted that Malaysia recently passed legislation allowing sentence commutations from death to life imprisonment.
The repatriated worker is currently staying at a hotel in Pasay City and will receive financial assistance and livelihood support to help him reintegrate into society.
“We will help him start a business and return to work,” Cacdac said, underscoring the government’s holistic approach to supporting returning overseas workers.
The case serves as a testament to the Philippine government’s diplomatic efforts and legal strategies in protecting its citizens working abroad.
