Six of the 24 Filipinos released from detention in Russia arrived in the Philippines early Sunday, June 21, after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin for their freedom. The first batch landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 at 12:05 a.m. aboard Philippine Airlines Flight PR 737.
Remaining 18 Expected Hours Later
The remaining 18 Filipinos are scheduled to arrive at 4:05 a.m. on Flight PR 733. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the group traveled from Krasnoyarsk, Russia, to Bangkok, Thailand, where they were split into two batches before continuing to Manila.
Nine Months Without Charges
The Filipinos had been held for nearly nine months in Irkutsk, Russia, without formal charges. Their release was secured after President Marcos raised their case with President Putin on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan.
According to the President, Russian authorities reviewed the cases and confirmed the Filipinos had violated no laws, ordering their immediate release and deportation back to the Philippines.
Government Assistance Ready
Government agencies are prepared to provide assistance and support to the returning Filipinos upon their arrival.
