As of July 2025, nearly 4,000 undocumented Filipinos residing in the United States are under the radar of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), facing potential deportation. A document dated November 2024 indicates that 3,772 Filipinos are listed on ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations’ non-detained docket with final orders of removal.
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Manuel Romualdez, has emphasized the importance of respecting U.S. immigration laws and has urged undocumented Filipinos to seek legal assistance promptly. He also noted that the issue of deportation is unlikely to be a major topic during the upcoming bilateral meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The Scope of the Issue
Concentration in California
A significant number of the undocumented Filipinos facing deportation are concentrated in California, where the Filipino community is notably large. Ambassador Romualdez highlighted that the West Coast, particularly California, has a high concentration of Filipinos, which likely correlates with the number of individuals under ICE’s radar.
Legal Status and Final Orders
The individuals in question are classified as “non-citizens” and are on ICE’s non-detained docket with final orders of removal. This status indicates that their deportation proceedings have concluded, and they are awaiting enforcement of the removal orders. It’s crucial for these individuals to act swiftly to explore any remaining legal avenues.
Diplomatic Considerations
Bilateral Meeting Between Presidents
The issue of undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. is not expected to be a focal point during the upcoming meeting between Presidents Trump and Marcos. Ambassador Romualdez mentioned that discussions have already taken place with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding cooperation on handling illegal immigration. Therefore, the matter may not require further discussion at the presidential level.
Call to Action for Affected Filipinos
Seek Legal Assistance
Ambassador Romualdez strongly advises undocumented Filipinos to consult with immigration attorneys to understand their options and rights. He pointed out that the Filipino-American Lawyers Association has volunteered to provide legal support to those in need. Taking proactive steps can be crucial in addressing their immigration status.
Respect for U.S. Laws
While seeking assistance, it’s essential for undocumented Filipinos to acknowledge and respect U.S. immigration laws. Ambassador Romualdez emphasized that just as the Philippines expects visitors to adhere to its laws, the same respect should be extended to U.S. regulations.
Conclusion
The situation facing nearly 4,000 undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. is pressing and requires immediate attention. By seeking legal counsel and respecting U.S. immigration laws, individuals can better navigate their circumstances. While the issue may not be a primary topic in diplomatic discussions, the Philippine government continues to monitor and address the matter to ensure the welfare of its citizens abroad.
