16 Filipinos jailed in Bahrain granted royal pardon

MANILA, Phlippines — Sixteen detained Filipinos were pardoned by the King of Bahrain, paving the way for their release and eventual repatriation to the Philippines.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday thanked King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for granting a royal pardon to the 16 Filipinos detained in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Malacañang said the act of humanity by Bahrain’s King Hamad “provides renewed hope and an opportunity for our countrymen and women to build new lives.”

“The Royal Pardon is testament anew to the abiding ties between the Philippines and the Kingdom of Bahrain and the deep and strong relations with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa,” the Palace said.

—Julie M. Aurelio