The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has announced its readiness to assist Filipino nationals deported from the United States. This statement was made by Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma during a career event in Pasay City. He emphasized that the government, following directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is committed to supporting Filipinos who are facing deportation due to their immigration status.
Laguesma stated, ‘The Department of Labor and Employment, in line with the President’s instructions, will assist and support those who might be deported.’ This initiative comes in response to the increasing concerns about the tightening of U.S. immigration policies under President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump, who promised stringent measures against illegal immigration during his campaign, has initiated several executive actions to reform U.S. entry policies in his second term.
Currently, 24 undocumented Filipinos have been deported, and approximately 80 others are in the process of deportation. Laguesma highlighted the government’s readiness by referencing previous instances, such as the deportation of numerous undocumented Filipino workers from Malaysia.
The effort to support returning nationals will be spearheaded by the Department of Migrant Workers and the Department of Foreign Affairs, with additional support from DOLE. The government aims to facilitate the reintegration of these individuals into society, providing them with livelihood support and other essential services.