DFA urged to push for clemency for Pinoys abroad amid Ramadan

A lawmaker on Tuesday urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to intensify its efforts in seeking executive clemency for overseas Filipinos convicted of crimes amid the holy month of Ramadan.

House overseas workers affairs panel chairperson and Kabayan Ron Salo said that since the month-long Ramadan is a period for reflection, forgiveness, and renewal in the Islamic faith, it presents a favorable time in seeking executive clemency.

“As Ramadan nears its end, we urge the DFA and Philippine Embassies in Muslim countries to make the necessary representation and actively intercede on behalf of our kababayans who are facing sentences abroad,” Salo said.

Salo, citing data from the DFA, said at least 83 Filipinos are on death row as of March 2023.

In addition, 1,267 Filipinos abroad are in detention, majority of which are in the Middle East and other Muslim countries.

Salo noted that Muslim leaders also traditionally grant royal clemency during Ramadan, including commutation of sentences or complete pardons.

“Such gestures of goodwill align with the values of compassion and forgiveness emphasized during the holy month,” Salo added.

Further, Salo called on all stakeholders, including other government agencies such as the Department of Migrant Workers Affairs, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Commission on Filipinos Overseas, non-government organizations, and the families of the convicted individuals, to support the DFA in their diplomatic endeavors.

“It is a collective effort that requires the support and prayers of our entire nation,” Salo said.

“We stand in solidarity with our overseas Filipinos and their families during this challenging time, hoping for their eventual return to our home,” Salo added.

Ramadan started on March 12. —VAL, GMA Integrated News