Pinays arrested in UAE over allegedly sharing air strike videos to receive legal aid from PH

The Philippine Embassy in the United Arab Emirates has confirmed that it is providing legal assistance to two Filipinas arrested in Dubai who allegedly shared videos related to the Middle East conflict.

In a Facebook statement, the embassy said it is extending support through its legal aid program but did not disclose details of the case as investigations are ongoing.

It added that a request for a consular visit has already been submitted to UAE authorities.

The embassy also confirmed that the two are overseas Filipino workers and that it is in direct communication with their families.

"The Embassy wishes to reassure the public that it remains fully committed to providing all necessary legal and consular support to the affected Filipino nationals," the statement said. 

"Furthermore, the Embassy reiterates its advisory for all Filipinos in the UAE to strictly adhere to local laws and regulations concerning the creation, posting, and sharing of photos, videos, and other online content, including AI-generated material, particularly in the context of the current regional situation," it concluded. 

Speaking on One News’ “Storycon” on Monday, March 17, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ver said the two were arrested for allegedly violating a security-related policy.

“We sent people there to see them. I got a text, and they’re both together at a police station. They’re OK. We’re asking if we can visit them and get their statement,” Ver said.

He added that the Filipinas were among 35 individuals, mostly foreigners, arrested for recording and posting missile attacks on social media.

Ver is hoping for a reconsideration of the Filipinas' case, saying they only posted the attacks online to give an assurance of their safety to their families.

The embassy has previously reminded Filipino nationals in the UAE to practice caution and responsibility in their social media activities, including messaging platforms. This includes refraining from "recording, posting, forwarding, or commenting on unverified or sensitive security-related content."

The UAE has been on the receiving end of missile and drone attacks from Iran since the Middle East conflict started on Feb. 28, reportedly initiated by a US-Israel coordinated assault on Iran. In retaliation, Iran has been targeting military bases shared by U.S. and UAE forces.