MANILA, Philippines – In light of recent developments surrounding the mass deportation of undocumented Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from the United States, Senator Imee R. Marcos has issued a heartfelt appeal to the nation, urging both the public and government officials to prepare for the impending crisis.
The senator began by addressing fellow Filipinos in the vernacular: “My dear countrymen, the news of mass deportations likely comes as no surprise to many of you, especially since newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump frequently mentioned this plan during his campaign. However, I am aware that many of you may still be unprepared for what lies ahead.”
She reassured affected families to remain calm and advised them to set aside funds for potential legal fees, job searches, and personal needs.
The senator emphasized that the looming crisis could mean not just the loss of jobs but also the painful separation of families that have long been the backbone of their dreams abroad.
“Bilang isang lingkod bayan na nakaranas din nang pag-iisa sa banyagang bayan–walang masilungan, walang matakbuhan, walang malapitan, ramdam ko ang inyong kalagayan,” Marcos shared.
(As a public servant who once experienced loneliness in a foreign land—without shelter, without anyone to turn to—I truly understand your plight.)
A Call for Government Support
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the senator urged her colleagues in both the Senate and House of Representatives to immediately approve increased funding for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
“I call on my colleagues to allocate the necessary funds to enable the DFA to respond swiftly and effectively to the deportation of over 200,000 undocumented Filipinos in the U.S. The DFA must be adequately prepared to assist our kababayans in this difficult time,” she stated.
She acknowledged that many undocumented Filipinos, commonly referred to as “TNT” (Tago Nang Tago or “always hiding”), have been living in the U.S. for years.
However, she proposed that the term “TNT” should now stand for “Tiyak na Tulong” (Assured Help) and “Tabangan Natung Tanan” (Cebuano for Let Us Help Everyone).
The senator stressed the importance of ensuring that the welfare, safety, and dignity of Filipino citizens are not compromised during the deportation process, even if the U.S. government covers the transportation costs.
Budgetary Shortfall and the Need for Immediate Action
In her statement, the senator underscored the urgency of allocating a significantly larger budget for the DFA.
According to her estimates, the department would need between Php 12.4 billion and Php 27.286 billion to adequately handle a sudden surge in repatriation expenses.
However, the current allocation under the 2025 National Expenditure Program and the General Appropriations Bill stands at a mere Php 1.259 billion for the “Protection of the Rights and Promotion of Welfare of Overseas Filipinos.”
This allocation includes funds for repatriation assistance but covers only 5-10% of the required budget.
As of September 30, 2024, the DFA had already spent Php 139,162,310.72 to assist the repatriation of 1,020 Filipinos.
For the entirety of the previous year, the DFA disbursed Php 298.3 million to assist 4,811 individuals, with costs ranging between Php 62,004.46 to Php 136,433.64 per person.
These figures reveal that current funding is woefully inadequate to meet the anticipated demand for repatriation assistance.
“Over 200,000 of our countrymen urgently need financial aid. It is only right that our government provides a comprehensive financial solution to this pressing issue,” she asserted.
Beyond Repatriation: Ensuring Sustainable Support
The senator emphasized that the government’s support should not stop at repatriation.
There must also be a clear plan to reintegrate returning OFWs by ensuring that jobs and benefits await them in the Philippines.
“Kailangang matiyak na may mga trabaho at benepisyong naghihintay para sa mga magbabalik-bayan nating mga bayani,” she concluded.
(Our returning heroes deserve more than just financial assistance. They need assurance of sustainable livelihoods as they rebuild their lives back home.)
This call to action serves as a critical reminder that immediate and sustained support is crucial for the well-being of hundreds of thousands of Filipino families.
The senator’s appeal highlights not just the need for financial resources but also the compassion and solidarity that are the hallmarks of the Filipino spirit in times of crisis.
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