The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday reminded overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), particularly those who are based in the Middle East, to abide by the laws of their host countries.

“This is a good reminder for our fellow Filipinos across the region — in the Middle East — that the rules there are different. You are not in the Philippines,” DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo de Vega told reporters in a press briefing.

“We understand that there are emotional issues involved, but you are there to work, and you should not lose your jobs for the sake of your family and yourself,” he added.

De Vega’s remarks came after the arrest of 20 Filipinos — supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte — in Qatar last Friday for organizing an unauthorized political demonstration.

“They were arrested for participating in a political demonstration, or what Qatari officials perceived as a political demonstration. They were showing support for the former president,” he said.

According to De Vega, of the 20 individuals detained, three minors were released due to their age, while their mother remains in police custody.

“Three of the protesters who are minors, teenagers, were freed. Their mother, though, is still in police custody,” he said.

He also noted that while the remaining detainees have not yet been formally charged, they could face up to three years in detention if a case is filed against them.

The Philippine government, he assured, will provide legal assistance.

The Philippine Embassy in Doha earlier confirmed that several Filipino nationals were arrested for allegedly participating in an unauthorized protest.

In an official statement, the Embassy said it is closely coordinating with Qatari authorities to ensure consular assistance for those detained.

Duterte is suspected of murder qualified as a crime against humanity, allegedly committed in the Philippines between 1 November 2011 and 16 March 2019.