DFA welcomes Saudi death row OFW

An overseas FIlipino worker (OFW) from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia who was on death row after allegedly committing murder has returned to the country, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Tuesday.

Rose Policarpio was welcomed by the DFA after final preparations were made following COVID-19 protocols.

The 31-year-old OFW worked as a food server in Saudi Arabia in 2013 where she was imprisoned after being accused of killing her employer.

For almost six years, Policarpio fought her case in court, consistently denying the crime and pushing for her innocence with assistance from the DFA Legal Assistance Fund and the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh.

“The DFA’s timely legal assistance ensured that her rights are protected under Saudi laws. The Philippine Embassy also regularly visited her in jail and provided her with welfare assistance,” the department stated.

After years of fighting, she was found not guilty by the lower court that eventually led to her release and repatriation.

“Ms. Policarpio’s eventual acquittal is an example of the government’s commitment in protecting and promoting the rights of our OFW. With her new lease on life, we wish her success in her future endeavors,” Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Sarah Arriola said.