International relations expert and SMNI program host Sass Rogando Sasot wrote an open letter to the Philippine Embassy in UAE after reports of some OFWs getting accosted by security guards for taking selfies while exercising their rights to vote the country’s next leaders.
Sasot asked the PH embassy in UAE to update their 2017 advisory prohibiting taking photos in the premises of the embassy as per UAE law.
Sasot found the title of their 2017 advisory quite confusing which reads: “Photograhy not allowed in and out of Embassy premises.”
Why? Because as per Pia Wurtzbach’s post, she was allowed to take pictures after she asked their permission.
Sasot said updating their advisory will hopefully provide clear instructions with regards to asking permission so the rest of our OWFs in UAE can enjoy the pleasure of taking selfies at our embassies and consulates in the Emirates for posting on their social media accounts.
Sasot thanked Miss Pia Wurtzbach for clarifying the issue with regards to this 2017 advisory.
ICYMI, Pia Wurtzbach has created some buzz online when she posted her photos taken at the Philippine Embassy in UAE after casting her vote in the Middle East country.

Netizens were quick to point out that Miss Pia Wurtzbach violated the 2017 advisory of the PH embassy in UAE with regards to taking photos in their premises.

A Kakampink tweeted that Miss Pia was quick to debunk fake news peddled by her critics.
Love how @PiaWurtzbach is quick to debunk fake news and clear things. Dapat ganito 👍🏻
— Mave 💗🌸🌷🎀 (@mave_nicegirl) April 14, 2022
🌸 She’s an official UAE resident and registered voter there
🌸 2017 pa yung advisory they’re referring to
🌸 She was allowed to take a pic at the Embassy when she registered and when she voted pic.twitter.com/Z2Z6xMXY65
You may read Sass Sasot’s original FB post below.
Dear Philippine Embassy in UAE,
Please kindly update your 2017 advisory prohibiting taking photos within and outside embassy premises, as per UAE law. Medyo magulo lang ang inyong advisory na may title na “Photograhy not allowed in and out of Embassy premises.” As per Miss Pia Wurtzbach’s post, she was allowed to take pictures after she asked for your permission. Please update your 2017 advisory and provide clear instructions on how to ask permission so the rest of our kababayans in UAE can have the pleasure of taking a selfie at our embassies and consulates in the UAE and of posting those pictures on their social media accounts. Pwede naman po pala. Thanks Miss Pia Wurtzbach for clarifying din! Salamat po!
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