Espionage case draws mixed reactions from Filipinos

News of a Filipino sentenced to death and two compatriots to life in jail by a Qatari court for espionage and economic sabotage has drawn mixed reaction, many of which found it preposterous.

The Filipinos were found guilty of passing military and economic secrets on to the Philippine government in exchange for money.

“What is the purpose of knowing how Qatar operates and maintains its military? We can learn from our allies like the US which has just signed a defense pact with the Philippines,” said a Filipino expatriate.

Another, still in utter disbelief, said, “The Philippine government cannot afford to pay millions just for a piece of information. We don’t have issues with Qatar and both countries have cordial relations.”

Social media was also abuzz with reactions from netizens, some of who did not agree with the court verdict.

“I think the death penalty as a punishment is not fair, considering the offence,” said a reaction on Facebook.

“This could be a case of corruption cover-up and these three are just so unfortunate to be the fall guys. There is really no spying case,” he posted.

Others believe the trio’s fight is not yet over as the case has been referred to the Court of Appeals.

However, the Philippine government should do something as it would reflect negatively on the image of the country because the nationality of the trio has been revealed in the media, they said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs organised a press conference in Manila to discuss the case.

Spokesman Charles Jose said the Philippine embassy in Doha would continue to extend assistance to the trio as long as necessary.

What do you think about the case?

Reposted from The Peninsula. Photo: The Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose. (AP)