By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said on Tuesday (12 Nov 2024) that government officials should focus on creating a comprehensive contingency plan to assist Filipinos should President-elect Donald Trump follow through on his campaign promise to implement a large-scale immigration crackdown.
“Madaling sabihin, pero mahirap gawin. Madaling sabihin na sana piliin na lang na umuwi ng mga undocumented nating kababayan na sa US kesa antayin pa nilang mai-deport,” Estrada said.
He added that, in addition to the efforts of concerned government agencies to develop logistical support plans for eventual repatriation, authorities should also help returning Filipinos by providing jobs or other means of livelihood.
“Apektado rin ang mga pamilyang umaasa sa padala ng mga kababayan natin na walang legal na basehan ang paninirahan sa US sakali man na mapilitan silang umuwi ng bansa,” he noted.
“Our government should be prepared to offer financial assistance programs to help families affected by the loss of a financial lifeline.”
Earlier, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez said that Trump would likely carry out his promise to deport undocumented Filipinos.
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