In the context of ongoing discussions about mass deportation, I was recently consulted by a Filipino woman who has been living in the United States for over a decade. Without any other family members in the country, she has found herself in a vulnerable position, having been out of status for some time. Although she is married to a U.S. citizen, she has been waiting for her spouse to file a petition on her behalf. However, it’s been puzzling because her spouse hasn’t taken any steps to do so yet.
What Lies Ahead for Immigration?
President-elect Donald J. Trump will be sworn in on January 20, 2025, at noon and Joe Biden departs the White House after four years in office. Trump will begin his second term, and we expect a flurry of executive actions concerning immigration that will bring significant changes to enforcement practices within the United States. Tom Homan, who is set to take on the role of Trump’s “border czar” and serve as a senior advisor on mass deportation efforts, has indicated that anyone residing in the country unlawfully is at risk of arrest. He noted, however, that enforcement will focus primarily on individuals deemed to pose “public safety and national security threats.” Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will rely heavily on state and local law enforcement agencies to identify and target suspected undocumented individuals, as this method is more cost-effective than conducting widespread arrests in communities.
The Trump administration is expected to focus on a portion of the 863,000 individuals who benefit from Temporary Protected Status (TPS), as these individuals come from nations considered too dangerous for them to return to. At present, there are 16 countries recognized for TPS, with 13 of those statuses set to expire in 2025. In his initial term, Trump attempted to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 400,000 individuals from countries such as El Salvador, Honduras, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Sudan, among others. If TPS were revoked, these individuals might be at risk of being deported as part of a large-scale deportation initiative.
Also, during his initial term, Trump sought to broaden a swift deportation method referred to as expedited removal, which is presently utilized for individuals apprehended within 100 miles of the border and within 14 days of their entry. This broadening would apply to individuals throughout the entire United States who arrived in the past two years. Nonetheless, this process will encounter challenges since a significant number of undocumented individuals have been in the U.S. for a longer period for over ten years.
The Filipino American Community
The Filipino American community, made up of nearly 4.2 million people, is an important part of American society. Our contributions span a wide range of sectors, enriching the cultural, economic, and social landscape of the nation. From healthcare to technology, education to the arts, we have made great progress and have become a key part of American life.
However, amidst this vibrant community lies a troubling reality. Approximately one million undocumented Filipinos face heightened vulnerability due to potential changes in immigration policies. According to research from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Migration Policy Institute, and the Pew Research Center, around 310,000 undocumented Filipinos currently live in the United States. This raises important questions about their future and security as immigration reform discussions gain momentum.
With President-elect Donald Trump promising to overhaul U.S. immigration policies, the stakes are high. His commitment to enforcing stricter border regulations has raised alarms among advocates and community leaders alike. Philippine Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Manuel Romualdez, has expressed serious concerns that between 250,000 and 300,000 Filipinos could be at risk of being blacklisted or deported if Trump follows through on his pledges for mass deportation of undocumented immigrants. This uncertainty looms large over families and individuals who have built their lives in the U.S., contributing to their communities while navigating a complex immigration landscape.
In response to these challenges, the Philippines is actively representing its citizens in the U.S. through its Embassy in Washington, D.C., and several Consulates General located in key cities such as Agana, Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco. The Philippine ambassador and consuls general have come together to declare their support for all Filipinos, regardless of their immigration status. They have convened to discuss pressing issues related to immigration and to formulate a coordinated response aimed at protecting their citizens during this uncertain time.
In a recent statement, the Philippine diplomatic representatives reaffirmed their commitment to providing essential support and consular assistance to Filipino citizens while adhering to U.S. laws. This proactive approach underscores the Philippines’ dedication to safeguarding its community and ensuring that no one is left behind amid a shifting political landscape.
What Can We Do For Now?
As a member of the Filipino American community, I see how we continue to grow and contribute to society. It is important for all of us to recognize both our successes and the challenges we face. Together, we can create an inclusive environment where every individual feels safe, supported, and appreciated. The road ahead may be unclear, but with our strength and unity, we can overcome these obstacles and continue to shine in the rich diversity of America.