Filipino among those arrested in LA mass immigration raids —PH consul general

A Filipino was among the individuals arrested in the large-scale immigration operations by United States federal authorities across multiple locations in Los Angeles, California, a consul general confirmed on Tuesday.  

The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles said the Filipino was arrested in his house during an operation of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“Siya po ay naaresto dahil isa po ito sa operasyon ng ICE. So sa bahay po siya inaresto kasama po ang ICE official at parole officer,” Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz told GMA Integrated News’ Unang Balita in an interview. 

(He was arrested during an operation of the ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement]. He was arrested in his house by an ICE official and parole officer.)

The consulate already informed the family of the Filipino about his arrest.

Based on initial reports from US federal immigration authorities, a 55-year-old Filipino from Ontario, California, was among those taken into custody. 

Cruz said the Filipino had been sentenced for theft and rape. 

Due to this, Cruz said the consulate is expecting that the arrested Filipino will be deported. 

The consulate vowed to provide assistance to the arrested Filipino, he added.

Started Friday, the ICE operation has triggered protests throughout the Los Angeles area. 

Advocacy groups and immigration rights supporters have taken to the streets, denouncing what they claim are excessive and discriminatory enforcement practices.

To assist federal agents, over 2,000 National Guard troops have already been deployed to various parts of California, particularly in Los Angeles, as the raids continue.

About 700 Marines were also to be deployed by the US military to Los Angeles until more National Guard troops arrive.

Cruz said no Filipinos have joined the protests so far. —KG, GMA Integrated News