DFA Refutes Claims of Filipino Deportations Under Trump’s Immigration Policy
Recent reports have surfaced alleging that the Trump administration has initiated mass deportations targeting undocumented Filipinos in the United States. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines has officially denied these claims, stating that no new arrests or deportations of Filipino nationals have occurred since President Donald Trump assumed office on January 20, 2025. This clarification comes amid growing concerns within the Filipino community in the U.S. regarding potential immigration crackdowns.
DFA’s Official Statement
According to DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose De Vega, there have been no recorded incidents of undocumented Filipinos being apprehended or deported under the current U.S. administration. He emphasized that individuals recently deported had existing cases prior to President Trump’s inauguration. De Vega stated, “Since President Trump took office on January 20, we have no record of any undocumented Filipino being arrested and detained for deportation.”
Clarification on Recent Deportations
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Manuel Romualdez, previously reported that 24 Filipinos were deported due to involvement in minor criminal activities. However, the DFA clarified that these individuals had been under U.S. custody before the current administration began. De Vega added that another Filipino was deported on January 30, 2025, but this case had been ongoing since the previous year.
Current U.S. Immigration Enforcement Focus
The DFA highlighted that U.S. authorities are currently prioritizing the deportation of undocumented individuals with criminal records or pending criminal cases. This approach aligns with the Trump administration’s stated policy of targeting individuals involved in criminal activities for deportation.
Advice to Undocumented Filipinos
In light of these developments, the DFA advises undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. to take proactive steps to regularize their immigration status. De Vega suggested that those who are productive members of society should seek legal avenues to legitimize their stay. He also noted that individuals facing deportation have legal options to contest such actions, which can extend their stay for several months.
Community Concerns and Calls for Assistance
Despite the DFA’s assurances, migrant advocacy groups have expressed concerns about potential deportations. Organizations like Tanggol Migrante have called on the Philippine government to provide assistance to Filipino workers in the U.S. who might be affected by mass deportations. They cite testimonies from healthcare workers in Chicago who were reportedly apprehended by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
While the DFA denies reports of new deportations of Filipinos under the Trump administration, it remains crucial for undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. to be aware of their rights and seek legal avenues to regularize their status. The Philippine government, along with migrant advocacy groups, continues to monitor the situation to ensure the welfare of Filipino nationals abroad.
