Metro Manila, Philippines – Twenty-four Filipinos detained in Russia for nine months are set to return home after Russian authorities ordered their release following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the city of Kazan.
Marcos announced the development Friday, June 19, saying the Filipinos, alleged illegal recruitment victims, would be deported and repatriated to the Philippines.
“After nine months in detention, 24 Filipinos in Russia will finally be on their way home to be reunited with their families,” Marcos said in a Facebook post.
The president said he raised the detainees’ situation during his meeting with Putin on the sidelines of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)-Russia Commemorative Summit.
Marcos said Putin was initially unaware of the case but immediately ordered Russian officials to review the matter.
“They have not been charged with any wrongdoing, but they have still been kept in detention for nine months,” Marcos quoted Putin as saying.
Marcos said the Russian leader later assured him that his government would find a solution.
“Don’t worry, we will find a way. We will find a way to fix this problem,” Marcos recalled Putin telling him.
The president said Russian authorities have arranged for the Filipinos’ deportation to the Philippines.
“The 24 Filipinos will be released. They are ready for deportation tomorrow by 5 p.m.,” Marcos said.
The Filipinos were reportedly detained in 2025 after falling victim to illegal recruitment that facilitated their entry to Russia.
