Russia has released 24 Filipinos who were detained for several months without charges in a Siberian city. Philippine officials reported the release occurred following discussions between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The group is expected to arrive in Manila on Sunday in two flights. Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro, who joined Marcos in his dialogue with Putin in Kazan, will welcome the first group, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila.
Marcos’ Diplomatic Intervention
President Marcos, who currently presides over the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), addressed the issue during a meeting with Putin at the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan. The summit marked the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia diplomatic relations.
The Philippines, a key ally of the United States in Asia, was among the ASEAN members to support a U.N. resolution condemning Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The release of the Filipinos came soon after Marcos expressed his concern.
At the summit, Singapore stood as the only ASEAN nation imposing sanctions on Russia. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong participated in the discussions in Kazan.
Details of the Detention
Details about the Filipinos’ detention in Irkutsk, a city in southeastern Siberia, remain limited. Philippine officials mentioned possible illegal job recruitment as a reason for their detention due to alleged immigration law violations.
President Putin assured Marcos that he was uninformed about the situation but promised to investigate. During a subsequent dinner, Putin informed Marcos that the Filipinos had not been charged with any crimes. “Don’t worry, we will find a way to fix this problem,” Putin reportedly assured Marcos.
Following the diplomatic discussions, Russian officials notified the Philippine delegation that the Filipinos would be deported back to Manila without delay.
Filipino Community in Russia
Approximately 15,000 Filipinos live and work in Russia, according to Igor Bailen, the Philippine Ambassador to Moscow. The recent situation highlights the challenges faced by migrants and underscores the need for attentive diplomatic relations.
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