FilAm leaders meet with D.C.-based officials to fight for TPS

By Don Tagala, ABS-CBN North America Bureau

Feb. 28, 2014

WASHINGTON D.C. – There was only a handful of advocates at TPS vigil outside the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Thursday night but their message was clear to U.S. officials — “Grant the Philippines Temporary Protective Status (TPS) now!”

Community leaders and advocates met with Secretary Jeh Johnson and Deputy Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for the first time at the DHS office.

TPS was not granted following that meeting but they’re keeping hope alive it will pass soon.

“They’re seriously considering passing it.  We have to let them hear us still, because our hope is still alive that it will happen soon,” Aquilina Soriano-Verdoza of the Pilipino Worker’s Center said.

If TPS is granted, Filipinos with expired or expiring visas will be allowed to temporarily stay and work in the U.S., while the Philippines recovers from Typhoon Yolanda.

Advocates said DHS officials are aware of the urgency and the need to pass this immigration relief. They also said that officials want to hear more real life stories from Pinoys directly affected by Typhoon Yolanda.

Linda Oalican of the Damayan Migrant Workers Association said, “We need to tell them stories that could really touch their hearts.”

“It all helps to show our support and demonstrate momentum for our movement,” Marita Etcubanez of the Asian American Advancing Justice (AAJC) concluded.

You may contact Don Tagala at don_tagala@abs-cbn.com for more information.