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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH embassy in Abu Dhabi probes reports of Filipinos arrested over sharing videos of Iran attack

PH embassy in Abu Dhabi probes reports of Filipinos arrested over sharing videos of Iran attack

Published Mar 16, 2026 09:11 am
The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi is investigating reports that Filipinos were among those arrested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for posting and sharing content online related to Iranian attacks on the Gulf state.
The embassy said its officials already sought confirmation from UAE authorities over reports that two Filipino nationals were among the 25 arrested for sharing videos of Tehran’s strike and Abu Dhabi’s air defense interceptions.
UAE law prohibits sharing materials that could disturb public security.
​"Philippine officials have sought official confirmation and further details from the competent UAE authorities regarding the identity, status, and legal circumstances of any Filipino nationals involved," the embassy said.
​Both the Philippine embassy and the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai said they fully respect the sovereignty of the UAE and its right to enforce its national security, cybercrime, and public order laws.
​Authorities ​of the Gulf state have already reminded the public that publishing or sharing misleading or fabricated security‑related content, including videos of air defense interceptions, attacks on landmarks, or AI‑generated false footage, is a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment and substantial fines.
​"In this regard, all Filipino nationals in the UAE are reminded to exercise utmost caution and responsibility in their use of social media and messaging platforms," the embassy said.
​"Filipinos are advised to refrain from recording, posting, forwarding, or commenting on unverified or sensitive security‑related content; to avoid spreading rumors or speculative information and to rely only on official announcements of UAE authorities and credible news sources for information on ongoing security situations," it added.

PH embassy in Bahrain shares same reminder

Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy in Manama also reminded Filipinos there that Bahrain also has laws that criminalize violations of personal privacy of individuals.
According to Bahrain Penal Code Article 370, these include photographing, recording or publishing private, family or intimate scenes without the consent of the individuals' concerns.
Violators may face penalties of up to five years imprisonment and fines of up to 5,000 Bahraini Dinars, particularly in cases where such content is shared on social media or public spaces.

Related Tags

PH-UAE Middle East conflict
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