A group of migrant advocates is urging the Philippine government to take immediate action in assisting Filipino workers affected by the U.S. crackdown on undocumented immigrants under the Trump administration.
Deportations Begin—Filipinos at Risk
According to Tanggol Migrante, a coalition of Filipino migrant groups, several undocumented Filipino workers have already been arrested despite the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) claiming otherwise.
Chicago has become the “ground zero” of these deportations.
Eight Filipino healthcare workers were recently arrested.
Six were detained and deported within just 24 hours—without a judicial warrant.
Migrant Groups Demand Government Action
“We expect more from the Philippine government. We need real action, not just news reports,” said Nerissa Allegretti, president of the National Alliance for Filipino Concerns (NAFCON) US.
They are calling on the Philippine government to step in and provide legal support, financial aid, and protection for Filipinos affected by the deportations.
Government’s Response—Conflicting Statements?
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) insists that the Filipinos deported so far were already in U.S. custody even before Trump took office.
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez says he is working with Filipino-American lawyers to provide legal assistance.
However, he clarified that:
Only Filipinos with clean records who have been working and paying taxes may have a chance to stay.
Those who overstayed their tourist visas could be prioritized for help.
Meanwhile, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has announced they will prepare assistance for deported Filipinos.
What’s Next for Undocumented Filipinos?
With mass deportations increasing, many undocumented Filipinos are left uncertain about their future. Advocates continue to urge the Philippine government to step up efforts to protect and support fellow countrymen facing deportation.
What do you think? Should the Philippine government do more to help?
