The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to offer assistance and livelihood programs to Filipinos affected by stricter US immigration policies.
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the agency will provide various forms of aid, including employment support for those who would be deported.
“Ang Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) alinsunod sa direktiba ng Pangulo, ay magbibigay ng tulong sa mga Pilipinong maaaring ma-deport upang matiyak na matatanggap nila ang kinakailangang suporta pagbalik nila sa bansa (The DOLE, following the President’s directive, will provide assistance to Filipinos who may be deported, ensuring they receive the necessary aid upon their return),” Laguesma said.
The issue has gained attention as the US government intensifies its crackdown on undocumented immigrants, leading to a rise in deportations during the administration of former President Donald Trump.
Philippine Ambassador to the US, Jose Manuel Romualdez, confirmed that 24 Filipinos have already been deported for alleged criminal offenses, while 80 others are currently undergoing deportation proceedings.
In response, the Philippine government has mobilized key agencies, with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) coordinating efforts to assist affected individuals, while DOLE focuses on reintegration support.
Laguesma cited the government’s prior experience handling large-scale deportations, referencing the repatriation of undocumented Filipino workers from Malaysia as an example of its readiness to manage similar situations.