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Pinoy Abroad

Pinoys in UAE reminded vs carrying others’ luggage


Philippine officials reminded Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to ignore requests the requests of other people to carry their luggage, even if they are friends or employers, or if they offer money in exchange. According to a report of the news site Khaleej Times, Philippine Consul General to the UAE Benito Valeriano said the reminder stemmed from the Philippine Justice Department’s April 29 opinion, which he received last weekend. The report said the advisory opinion aims to help the Philippine government’s information and awareness campaign against drug smuggling and against using Filipino travelers and expatriates as drug couriers. In the advisory opinion, Philippines Justice Secretary Leila de Lima listed 10 reminders for Filipino travelers and expatriates:

  • "Carry luggage at your own risk;
  • Knowledge is immaterial and intent is not a requirement in drug trafficking;
  • Be vigilant of the modus operandi of drug courier syndicates;
  • In the unfortunate event of arrest or detention for drug trafficking have presence of mind and do not resist arrest;
  • Assert your legal rights;
  • Inquire on the legal remedies and request for Consular assistance;
  • Presumption of innocence will always apply;
  • The laws of the country of arrest apply, if sentenced;
  • The Philippine government can only be of limited assistance;
  • “Blood money" cannot be paid to erase the liability of a person convicted of a crime involving illegal drugs; and
  • Take full responsibility of your actions." The DOJ opinion stemmed from the execution in China in March this of Filipino drug mules Sally Villanueva, Ramon Credo and Elizabeth Batain. - VVP, GMA News
    • Tags: unitedarabemirates, departmentofforeignaffairs
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