Riyadh: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) clarified the circumstances surrounding the execution of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Saudi Arabia, stating that the individual acted in self-defense during a fatal altercation.

According to Philippines News Agency, DFA Undersecretary for Migration Eduardo Jose de Vega addressed the sensitive nature of the incident after engaging with the OFW’s family. De Vega acknowledged that his previous statements did not fully capture the gravity of the situation, highlighting that the altercation stemmed from a business dispute between the OFW and a Saudi national, which escalated into a serious confrontation.

The execution was carried out by the Saudi government without prior notification to the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh or the family of the Filipino national, as confirmed by Philippine Embassy in Riyadh Chargé d’affaires Rommel Romato. The OFW was executed following a conviction for the murder of a Saudi national, which was linked to a financial disagreemen
t.

De Vega explained that the OFW faced threats, an attack, and a beating in his own home by the victim over monetary issues. This prior assault prompted the OFW to act in self-defense, leading to the death of the Saudi national. De Vega emphasized that the incident began as a professional disagreement but quickly escalated into a fatal confrontation.

In his statement, De Vega expressed the DFA’s commitment to acknowledging the full context of the events to the OFW’s family and those affected by the tragedy. He hoped that this clarification would offer some peace to the grieving family, although he noted that no further interviews or queries would be entertained to respect the family’s privacy.