Undocumented Filipinos in the U.S Seek Legal Help
2 min read
MARCH 24,2025
MANILA, Philippines – Undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. are at high risk of deportation following former President Donald Trump’s latest immigration directives. The Philippine Ambassador to the United States urges them to consult immigration lawyers and explore legal ways to stay in the country.
Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez stressed the urgency of addressing immigration status concerns. He warned that undocumented Filipinos face a high risk of deportation if they do not act promptly.
“Undocumented Filipinos in the U.S should immediately seek advice from an immigration lawyer and start the process to legalize their stay while they still have a chance,” Romualdez said in a radio interview with DZBB on Sunday, March 23.
Risk of Permanent Deportation for Undocumented Filipinos
Romualdez cautioned that deported individuals may lose the chance to re-enter the U.S. This makes it even more critical for affected Filipinos to take action now.
This advisory follows the U.S. government’s decision to revoke temporary protected status (TPS) for 530,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans. The revocation, effective April 24, ends the parole entry program introduced under former President Joe Biden. This program allowed nationals from these countries to enter if they had U.S.-based sponsors.
Growing Concerns for Undocumented Filipinos in the U.S.
In January, U.S. authorities deported 24 Filipinos for alleged involvement in criminal activities. Since November, Ambassador Romualdez has repeatedly warned about potential mass deportations under Trump’s administration. The former president has vowed to enforce stricter immigration laws, even pledging to use military resources for deportations.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (2022), an estimated 350,000 Undocumented Filipinos in the U.S without legal status. The Philippines ranks as the fifth-largest source of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., following Honduras, which has approximately 560,000 undocumented individuals.
What Undocumented Filipinos Should Do Now
With these new immigration challenges, undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. should:
✔ Consult an immigration attorney – Understand your legal options before a potential crackdown. ✔ Gather essential documents – Birth certificates, employment records, and other paperwork are crucial for legalizing your status. ✔ Stay informed about policy changes – Immigration laws change constantly, so staying updated is key. ✔ Explore visa and legal residency programs – Some undocumented immigrants may qualify for legal pathways through sponsorship, marriage, or employment.
Stay Ahead of the Changes
As the U.S. tightens immigration policies, Filipinos without legal status must be proactive. Seeking legal advice and taking action now could mean the difference between staying in the U.S. legally or facing deportation.
For more updates on immigration policies and legal options, stay connected with trusted legal resources and Filipino community organizations. Bureau of Immigration Philippines
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