The Philippine government said it is coordinating with United States authorities to ensure the protection and humane treatment of Filipinos detained by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as the Trump administration tightens its immigration policies.
Foreign Affairs spokesperson Angelica Escalona said Saturday that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), through the Philippine Embassy and Consulates General across the US, continues to monitor the condition of detained Filipinos and provide assistance when needed.
“The DFA, through our Embassy and Consulates General, remains actively engaged in assisting detained Filipino nationals to ensure their well-being and treatment according to the law and international standards,” Escalona said.
Her statement came in response to criticism from US-based Filipino civil rights groups who alleged that the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., has ignored reports of medical neglect in facilities holding Filipino detainees.
Escalona clarified that the DFA is in constant communication with relevant US authorities to ensure detainees’ rights are upheld and that any concerns are addressed promptly. She also emphasized that medical updates are shared only with the consent of the individuals involved.
“Medical conditions are based on information shared directly by the detainees or their families, and are raised with authorities as necessary,” she noted, underscoring the DFA’s commitment to both confidentiality and compassion.
