In a recent development, 24 Filipinos were deported from the United States for being linked to illegal activities, though their crimes were not considered very serious. This is part of a larger effort by the US government to remove individuals who have been involved in criminal activities, especially under the mass deportation plan promised by US President Donald Trump.
What Happened to These Filipinos?
Philippine Ambassador to the US, Jose Manuel Romualdez, confirmed that these 24 Filipinos were deported after being linked to certain crimes. However, the crimes they were involved in were not major or violent. Romualdez explained in an interview that the individuals involved were not “bad people,” but they did break the law in some way.
“They were involved in some criminal activities, but these were not very serious crimes,” said Romualdez in his interview with Super Radyo dzBB.
What Does This Mean for Other Filipinos in the US?
This deportation is just the beginning. The US government is focusing on deporting people with criminal records first. Romualdez also mentioned that the government plans to prioritize around 1.3 million immigrants who have already been processed and identified for possible deportation.
The Ambassador has also advised Filipinos in the US who do not have legal status to take action. He encouraged them to either voluntarily return to the Philippines or start working on getting their papers in order before they are deported under Trump’s plan.
What About Filipinos Who Are Legally in the US?
For Filipinos who are legally working and living in the US, there is still hope! Romualdez said that Filipinos who have been paying taxes and contributing to society have a much higher chance of staying legally in the country, especially if their employers help sponsor them for legal status.
“Those who are already here and working and paying taxes have a big chance of getting legal status, especially if their employers sponsor them,” Romualdez explained.
Help for Undocumented Filipinos
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in the Philippines is aware of the situation and has said it will assist over 300,000 undocumented Filipinos living in the US who might be at risk of deportation.
The Bigger Picture: Trump’s Plan
President Trump has made illegal immigration a major issue in the US, calling it a national emergency. He has tasked the US military with helping to secure the borders and manage the deportation of people who have overstayed their visas or broken the law.
This ongoing situation has many Filipinos in the US worried, but there are steps they can take to secure their future. Whether through voluntary return or working to legalize their status, those affected are urged to act fast.