President Donald Trump's anti-immigration stance puts thousands of undocumented Filipinos in the United States at risk of deportation. Philippine Ambassador to the United States, Jose Manuel Romualdez, in an interview on ANC’s Headstart, disclosed that approximately 350,000 Filipinos living illegally in the U.S. could face consequences, especially those with criminal backgrounds.
Romualdez emphasized the importance for Filipinos to adhere to the law and seek legal pathways to stay in the country. He mentioned that individuals who have been in the U.S. for a decade, working and establishing their lives, might still have a chance to obtain permanent status. However, recent arrivals who have overstayed their visas are likely to face challenges due to stricter regulations.
The ambassador underscored the significance of abiding by U.S. immigration laws, advising individuals to take the appropriate steps to secure their legal status. Romualdez also highlighted the Embassy's plan to offer support and guidance through a program staffed with legal experts to assist Filipinos, irrespective of their residency status.
Additionally, Romualdez noted the potential impact on long-term residents who have built families and careers in the U.S. The embassy aims to collaborate with Filipino-American community groups to provide counsel on navigating the legal processes and exploring options for staying legally in the country.
Furthermore, Romualdez mentioned the possibility of qualifying for naturalization through marriage to a U.S. citizen after three years as a permanent resident. Despite the challenges posed by the current immigration policies, Romualdez reiterated the importance of seeking the correct legal pathways to ensure peace of mind and security for Filipinos residing in the United States.
