On the Arrest of 17 Filipinas in Riyadh

29 October 2018 — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) today reminded overseas Filipino workers abroad, particularly in the Middle East, to respect the laws and traditions of their host countries. The DFA issued the reminder as it confirmed the arrest of 17 Filipinas in Saudi Arabia for taking part in a Halloween party there.

In its report to the DFA Home Office in Manila, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh said the 17 Filipinas are being held at the Al Nisa Jail in the capital. According to Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Adnan Alonto, Embassy officials have been requesting access to the detained Filipinas since their arrest was reported on Friday.

Ambassador Alonto said the 17 were among a number of persons who were taken into custody by Saudi intelligence operatives who raided a compound in Riyadh where the Halloween party was taking place.

Saudi laws strictly prohibit unattached males and females from being seen together in public. The compound was raided after neighbors complained of loud noise from the party.

Ambassador Alonto said the Embassy issued an advisory urging members of the Filipino Community to be mindful of local sensitivities. Ambassador Alonto said it was not immediately clear what charges have been filed against the detained Filipinas but initial information the Embassy had gathered indicate that the organizers of the event have been charged with holding an event without a permit and for disturbing the neighborhood. END