MANILA – A troubling wave of uncertainty looms over the Filipino community in the United States as the Trump administration ramps up its aggressive campaign against illegal immigration. Philippine Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Manuel Romualdez, revealed in a recent interview that an undisclosed number of Filipinos, primarily recent arrivals, have been notified of their impending deportation.
This announcement marks a significant moment as these individuals could become the first deportees under the second Trump administration, which has pledged to enforce a stringent policy of arrests and deportations directed at undocumented immigrants. While the exact number of affected individuals remains unclear, Romualdez indicated that many hail from key states such as California, New York, and New Jersey.
“I don’t know what status it is right now, but I keep on saying the same thing – if there is no legal path, my suggestion is voluntary departure,” Romualdez advised, emphasizing the importance of seeking legal counsel. He urged those who have overstayed their work visas to connect with immigration lawyers to explore their options, reminding them that they have rights and avenues for their cases to be heard.
This development comes on the heels of a nationwide advertising campaign launched by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which warns illegal immigrants to exit the country voluntarily or face deportation with a ban on re-entry.
In response to these events, Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed relevant agencies to extend support to those at risk of deportation. Undersecretary Eduardo Jose De Vega of the Department of Foreign Affairs highlighted that the government is prepared to utilize its Assistance to Nationals fund, alongside the Department of Migrant Workers’ Aksyon Fund, to provide vital legal, medical, financial, and other forms of assistance for overseas Filipino workers.
As the situation unfolds, many in the Filipino community are left grappling with fear and uncertainty, navigating the complex landscape of immigration laws amidst a shifting political climate. The call for legal assistance and the emphasis on voluntary departure reflect a broader concern for the welfare of those facing deportation, underscoring the need for support during these challenging times.
