The AKO-OFW party-list expressed deep gratitude after its nominee, Dr. Joseph Rivera, and several other Filipinos in Qatar were released and reunited with their families.
Their detention stemmed from violations related to conducting an “illegal gathering” without a permit from the Qatari government. Under Qatar’s Law No. 18 of 2004, any assembly without proper authorization is strictly prohibited.
Dr. Joseph Rivera extended his appreciation to the Philippine government, particularly the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Philippine Embassy, and the Migrant Workers Office in Doha. He acknowledged their legal assistance, essential goods, and financial support, which helped secure their release and return to their families.
Rivera also commended Qatar’s justice system for its fair and professional handling of the case. However, he clarified that no protest took place during their gathering, contrary to circulating misinformation regarding their arrest.
He admitted that a beach picnic camping was held, where attendees wore shirts bearing the name of former President Rodrigo Duterte. However, he emphasized that the event was not a political demonstration and was not intended to mark Duterte’s birthday.
With this, the AKO-OFW party-list reiterated that it does not align with a single political party but instead supports and collaborates with any leader who genuinely serves the Filipino people, especially overseas workers.
