24 Filipinos Deported, With 80 More Facing Immediate Risk | What You Need to Know and Do Now

The recent deportation of 24 Filipinos from the United States is a wake-up call for our community. While the news may feel unsettling, it’s important to approach this with a clear head. There are steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones, but it starts with knowing the facts.

What Happened?

As of this article’s publishing time, these 24 Filipinos were deported after being linked to minor offenses, according to Philippine Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Manuel Romualdez. In addition to these deportations, around 80 other names are potentially up for immediate deportation, Romualdez revealed. While the U.S. government’s current deportation efforts focus on those with criminal records, undocumented Filipinos, even those without a record, remain vulnerable and at risk.

It’s crucial to understand that being undocumented doesn’t always mean the same thing. Some individuals entered the U.S. without legal authorization, while others came legally but overstayed their visas. Overstaying a visa, which is more common among Filipinos, carries fewer legal consequences than illegal entry but still puts individuals at risk of deportation.

The Bigger Picture

Around 350,000 undocumented Filipinos currently live in the U.S., based on recent estimates by the Embassy. These are our friends, family members, and coworkers—people who contribute to their communities and work hard to build better lives. While mass deportations are unlikely, as deporting 350,000 Filipinos by the end of President Trump’s term would be almost logistically impossible, the government’s focus on undocumented immigrants means that thousands could still face uncertainty. This makes it more important than ever to act.

What You Can Do 

If you’re undocumented or know someone who is, taking proactive steps now can make all the difference. Here are some practical actions to consider:

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer. Get personalized advice from a professional who can help you explore options like family-based petitions, work sponsorships, or other legal pathways. Non-profits that specialize in immigrant rights can also be a great resource.

Consider Voluntary Departure. While not ideal, this can sometimes help you avoid the harsher penalties associated with forced deportation. Make sure to consult a lawyer before making this decision.

Look Into Legalization Process as Swiftly as Possible. If you have a steady job, check if your employer can sponsor you for a work-based visa or residency. Programs like this can open doors to permanent legal status.

Stay Informed. Immigration laws and policies are constantly changing. Stay up to date on new developments and programs that might apply to your situation.

Keep a Low Profile. Avoid actions that could draw unnecessary attention or lead to trouble while you’re working on legalizing your status. This isn’t about hiding but being smart and cautious (and obviously, avoid any other legal trouble and issues)

Why Legalization Matters

Having legal status isn’t just about staying in the U.S., it’s about peace of mind and opportunity for your and your family- but of course we don’t need to remind you: that’s why most of us are here. Legalization allows you to fully participate in society, from finding better jobs to accessing benefits, and most importantly, to live without fear. If you’ve overstayed a visa, your path to legalization may be less complicated than those who entered illegally, but it’s still essential to get expert guidance and act immediately. Remember, once you are deported, it is quite challenging to gain re-entry. While not impossible, after deportation, one would typically be barred from re-entering the US for a specific period, which could be 5, 10, or 20 years depending on the reason for removal. It is also possible, that one could permanently be barred from coming back again.

Filipinos are known for resilience and community. Whether you’re facing immigration challenges yourself or supporting someone who is, remember that you’re not alone. There are resources and people ready to help. By seeking legal advice, staying informed, and lifting each other up, we can get through this together.