The Philippine Embassy in Washington has denied reports claiming that a Filipino was among 10 foreign nationals deported by the United States to the African nation of Eswatini.
In a statement released Saturday, the embassy said it verified the report directly with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and confirmed that no Filipino citizen was part of the deportation flight.
“After verification with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the embassy was able to confirm that no Filipino citizen has been involved in any third-country deportation from the United States,” the embassy said.
The person initially reported as a Filipino, the embassy clarified, failed to prove Philippine citizenship and therefore could not be deported to the Philippines.
Confusion Over US Deportation Flight
The clarification came after US news outlet Axios reported on October 6 that several migrants—including one allegedly Filipino—were among those deported to Eswatini. The list reportedly included three Vietnamese men, one Cambodian, and others from Chad and Cuba.
Eswatini’s Correctional Services confirmed the arrival of 10 foreign nationals on Monday, assuring the public that all individuals remain under strict supervision and care within the country’s correctional facilities.
“These individuals pose no immediate threat to public safety,” the Eswatini government said, adding that security protocols were being strictly followed.
PH Embassy Stands Firm on Deportation Policy
Earlier this year, the Philippine government reiterated to US officials that Filipinos facing deportation must be sent home to the Philippines, not to third countries.
Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez stressed that the country would “certainly not want” any Filipino—or even Filipino-Americans—to be sent to another country under previous US deportation arrangements made during the Trump administration.
“The Philippines’ position is clear,” Romualdez said. “Any Filipino who must be deported should be brought back home.”
Protecting Overseas Filipinos
The embassy assured the public that it continues to coordinate closely with US authorities to ensure the welfare and fair treatment of all Filipinos living in the United States.
“We are ready to receive any Filipino citizen under final order of removal,” the embassy emphasized, reaffirming its commitment to protect the rights and dignity of every Filipino abroad.
The clarification brings relief to overseas Filipinos following earlier confusion — a reminder that the Philippine government remains vigilant in safeguarding its citizens wherever they may be.
