NJ Assembly Democrats News Release: Assembly Panel Approves Bill To Urge TPS for Filipinos

FOR RELEASE                                                                   CONTACT 12/17/2013                                                                              Press office                                                                                          (609) 847-3500

Assembly Panel Approves Johnson, Eustace & Chivukula Bill to Urge Temporary Protected Status for Filipino Nationals in Wake of Typhoon Haiyan (TRENTON) - An Assembly panel recently approved a measure sponsored by Assembly Democrats Gordon M. Johnson, Timothy Eustace and Upendra J. Chivukula to urge the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to grant temporary protected status to visitors from the Philippines following the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan. On Friday, November 8th, Typhoon Haiyan, one of the most powerful storms ever recorded on land, hit the Philippines, bringing sustained winds of 147 mph and waves as high as 45 ft. An estimated 6.9 million people have been affected by the storm, and the death toll is estimated to be in the thousands while the number of people displaced by the massive storm rises into the hundreds of thousands. "Typhoon Haiyan has left most of the Philippines ravaged," said Johnson (D-Bergen). "This indeed is a situation that would warrant a suspension of deportation for Philippine nationals." "Many residents in Bergen have been directly affected by what has happened in the Philippines," said Eustace (D-Bergen, Passaic). "With family and friends still there, many Filipinos desire to help their country by remaining here to work. Temporary protected status for Philippine nationals is an important humanitarian gesture that should be granted by the U.S." "Many Filipinos have lost everything," said Chivukula (Middlesex, Somerset). "Deportation possibly puts more lives at risk. The United States prides itself through its humanitarian work all over the world and temporarily ceasing the process would be of great help to some citizens of the Philippines." The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may designate a country, or portions of a country, for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) when conditions exist such as an ongoing armed conflict or an environmental disaster in the country that temporarily prevents the country's nationals from returning safely. The measure (AR-207) respectfully urges the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to grant TPS to the Philippines in order to allow nationals residing in the United States temporary relief from possible deportation or removal proceedings. If the United States grants the request, the Philippines will join El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Honduras that were placed under TPS after experiencing similar natural disasters. The Assembly resolution was released by the Assembly State Government Committee on December 16.

Department of Foreign Affairs : Philippines asks U.S. to designate the country under Temporary Protected Status

Statement from the DFA: PH asks U.S. to designate the country under Temporary Protected Status

Published: December 16, 2013. Latest update: December 16..., 2013 4:35 pm.
Statement of Assistant Secretary Raul S. Hernandez: On the Temporary Protected Status issue

The Philippines has formally requested the United States Government on Friday, December 13, to designate the country under Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario said that placing the Philippines under TPS will allow eligible Filipinos to stay and work in the US in order for them to assist in the country’s continuing recovery efforts after Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) devastated Central Visayas last month, killing more than 6,000 people and affecting more than 16 million.

The request will be evaluated first by US authorities and may take some time. If approved, eligible Filipinos can start filing their applications which will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis.

If this request is granted, the Philippines will join four other countries – El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Honduras – that were placed under TPS after going through similar natural disasters.

The said request was officially conveyed by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. to the Department of Homeland Security through a Note Verbale sent to the US Department of State.

http://www.gov.ph/2013/12/16/statement-the-dfa-spokesperson-on-the-temporary-protected-status-tps-issue/

--- WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Philippines has formally requested Washington for additional immigration relief measures to allow eligible Filipinos to stay and work in the United States so they could support the country’s long-term post-typhoon recovery efforts, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced Monday, 16 December.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. Del Rosario said the request to designate the Philippines under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) was officially conveyed on Friday, 13 December, by Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. to the Department of Homeland Security through a note verbale to the Department of State.

“Recognizing the intense desire of the Filipino-American Community to more effectively assist victims, we would like to formally request that eligible Filipino nationals in the US be granted Temporary Protected Status under Section 244 of the US Immigration and Nationality Act,” said the letter signed by Ambassador Cuisia and addressed to Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Rand Beers.

The request was made in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, which killed more than 6,000  people; displaced more than 4 million and affected more than 12 million during its violent rampage across the Central Philippines last month.

More than 200 Filipino-American organizations across the US, backed by members of the US Senate and House of Representatives, the Catholic Church and other NGOs have requested for the additional immigration relief measures that a TPS designation would be able to provide to Filipinos.

Secretary Del Rosario said if the request is granted, the Philippines will join four other countries that were placed under TPS after going through similar natural catastrophes. These are El Salvador and Haiti after these were devastated by earthquakes in 2001 and 2010 respectively and Nicaragua and Honduras after they were affected by Hurricane Mitch in 1998.

Ambassador Cuisia said the Embassy has also been in discussions with the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State and the DFA in Manila since the TPS was first brought to his attention a few days after Haiyan struck the country.

Ambassador Cuisia said the Philippine Embassy and the Philippine Consulates General in

New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu and Agana made the recommendation to Secretary Del Rosario during their annual conference in Washington, D.C. last week and after extensive consultations with leaders of the Filipino Community in their respective jurisdictions.

Ambassador Cuisia explained that a TPS designation for the Philippines would allow eligible Filipinos currently in the US to support the long-term relief and rehabilitation efforts in the country because they could be given temporary authorization to stay and work for a limited period.

He said the request will have to first be evaluated by US authorities and may take some time. If approved, eligible Filipinos can start filing their applications, which will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis.

He said that in addition to TPS, Filipinos already in the US can also take advantage of the immigration breaks announced by the US Citizenship and Immigration Service on 15 November of which some Filipinos have already availed themselves.

Source: Embassy of the Philippines

 

PH Seeks Protected Status For Filipinos in the US due to Yolanda

PH seeks protected status for Filipinos in the US due to Yolanda

By: Eric Apolonio, InterAksyon.com
December 16, 2013 5:12 PM

InterAksyon.com
The online news portal of TV5

MANILA, Philippines - Following the deaths and destruction caused by super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), the Philippines formally requested the U.S. government to place the country under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday. 

The TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to foreigners in the U.S. who are temporarily unable to safely return to their home country because of ongoing armed conflict, an environmental disaster, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions.

If a country is placed under TPS, its eligible citizens may stay and work in the U.S.

A TPS does not, however, lead to a beneficiary’s permanent resident status. If the U.S. government terminates the TPS, beneficiaries would revert to the same immigration status they had before TPS.

Placing the Philippines under TPS will allow eligible Filipinos to stay and work in the U.S. "in order for them to assist in the country's continuing recovery efforts," following the typhoon killing over 6,000 and affecting 16 million Filipinos, the DFA said. 

The request will be evaluated first by US authorities. "If approved, eligible Filipinos can start filing their applications which will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis, the DFA said. 

Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. conveyed the request on December 13 to the Department of Homeland Security through a note verbale sent to the U.S. Department of State.     

If the request is granted, the Philippines will join four other countries - El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua and Honduras – that were placed under TPS after going through similar natural disasters.

Spearheading the drive for the Philippines to be placed under TPS are Filipino community leaders based in New York headed by lawyer JT Mallonga of the Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund Inc. and Ed Navarra, chairman of National Federation of Filipino-American Association. 

Earlier Mallonga told newsman that” while we are prepared to exhaust all means to get this to the attention of the President; time is certainly of the essence."  

"(T)his is neither a legal nor a political issue, but a humanitarian one and we hope that our President will act swiftly on this request from literally almost a million Filipinos in the U.S.," added Mallonga. 

 

Source: http://www.interaksyon.com/article/76927/ph-seeks-protected-status-for-filipinos-in-the-us-due-to-yolanda

UNTV Interview: Temporary Protected Status for Filipino Americans

NaFFAA Calls on DHS to Grant Temporary Protected Status to Filipinos

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                      Contact:    Bing Cardenas Branigin

Nov. 22, 2013                                                                               bing.branigin@naffaa-national.org

                                                                                                   Tel. 202-361-1024

                                               

                                                                                                  Jon Melegrito

                                                                                                  jon.melegrito@naffaa-national.org

                                                                                                   Tel: 202-361-0296

                   

FilAm Organizations Urged to Endorse

Extension of TPS

 

 

Washington, D.C.  The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) is calling on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to designate the Philippines as a country for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

 

Currently allowed under immigration laws for countries impacted by a natural disaster resulting in a “substantial, but temporary, disruption of living conditions,” TPS will provide temporary immigration relief to undocumented Filipino immigrants presently residing in the U.S.

 

In a letter to DHS Acting Secretary Rand Beers, Navarra  wrote that “this benefit will alleviate their fears of deportation to a devastated country and allow them to work and stay in the US temporarily. With this authorization, Filipino nationals can continue providing material and financial support to the homeland, especially at a time when they are in dire need of help.”

 

J.T. Mallonga, NaFFAA National Vice Chair and President of the Filipino American Legal and Defense Fund (FALDEF), explains that there are precedents where the U.S. administration acted on similar requests. “Following the devastating earthquake which struck Haiti two years ago, the U.S designated TPS to Haitian nationals, allowing them to continue living and working in the country for 18 months,” Mallonga said. “The same should be done to Filipinos, and it must be done soon.” Other nationals from countries devastated by natural disasters, such as Honduras, Sudan and El Salvador, have also been granted TPS before.

 

Mallonga further explains that “while TPS provides temporary legal status for Filipinos already in the US, it will not necessarily lead to permanent residency. Also, TPS does not provide humanitarian aid or legal status for people not already here.  TPS may only be granted for 18 months. Beneficiaries will be granted a temporary employment authorization document as proof of authorized stay in the US for that period.  Qualified TPS applicants will then be allowed to remain in the US with a work permit.  This is only meant to be a temporary immigration benefit.”
          

When the Obama administration announced the designation of TPS for Haitian nationals in 2011, Mallonga notes that the 100,000 - 200,000 Haitian immigrants estimated by the Department of Homeland Security to be in the U.S. without authorization were not subject to deportation. The estimated 270,000 undocumented Filipino immigrants will similarly be given the same benefit if TPS is granted.

 

USCIS Reminds Filipino Nationals Impacted by Typhoon Haiyan of Available Immigration Relief Measures

Source: USCIS
Release Date: November 15, 2013
    

In light of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines (named “Yolanda” by Philippine authorities), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) would like to remind Filipino nationals that they may be eligible for certain immigration relief measures if requested.

USCIS understands that a natural disaster can affect an individual’s ability to establish or maintain lawful immigration status in the United States. Therefore, Filipino nationals impacted by Typhoon Haiyan may be eligible to benefit from the following immigration relief measures:

• Change or extension of nonimmigrant status for an individual currently in the United States, even when the request is filed after the authorized period of admission has expired;
• Extension of certain grants of parole made by USCIS;
• Extension of certain grants of advance parole, and expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication and approval, where possible, of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited processing of immigrant petitions for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs);
• Expedited adjudication of employment authorization applications, where appropriate; and
• Assistance to LPRs stranded overseas without immigration or travel documents, such as Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards). USCIS and the Department of State will coordinate on these matters when the LPR is stranded in a place that has no local USCIS office.

For more information on USCIS humanitarian programs, visit www.uscis.gov or call the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.

Fashion for #ReliefPH : Clothing Sale to Help the Philippines Rebuild

We all want to help the Filipino people. BUT you're not sure what you can do to help. You don't know if what you can offer can make a difference.

There are so many people organizing events (bless their kind hearts). So HERE's a FUN event... that I believe you can have fun and make a BIG difference:

Fashion For Relief: Clothing Sale to Help the Philippines Rebuild

Harnessing the power of fashion to outfit relief efforts after Typhoon Haiyan. A benefit sponsored by Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund (FALDEF) and the Philippine Consulate General of NY.

What? Spearheaded by young New York women born in the Philippines, this curated clothing sale will raise funds to directly benefit survivors of the typhoon in the Philippines. They are collecting goods from retailers and fashionable New Yorkers, and pooling everything in one sale event at the Philippine Consulate General, New Yorke. Expect styles from Diane von Furstenberg and other style icons, refreshments, DJ sets, and more!

Why? Stilettos and fur coats won’t help typhoon survivors in the Philippines, but the funds raised from selling fashionable goods will go a long way in purchasing desperately needed supplies. Whether you donate, buy, or both, rest assured that every dollar raised will go directly to relief efforts.

Where and when? Donations accepted at FALDEF, 4 W 43rd Street, New York, NY, from Nov. 15-Nov. 22 noon-5pm. Sale event will be held at the Philippine Consulate General, 556 5th Ave, New York, NY 10036 on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2013 from 11am-4:30pm.

Want to learn more? For the latest updates, visit https://www.facebook.com/philippinesfashionrelief

Stand Up For Immigrants: A Public Forum on Immigration

 

 

Dear Friends of Immigrants & Migrants,

 

Peace and all good!

 

I am pleased to invite you to take part in a public forum on immigration reform.

 

Stand Up For Immigrants: a public forum on immigration

Saturday, November 2, 2013, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

San Damiano Hall, Church of St. Francis of Assisi

127 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001

 

At this free public forum, a panel of immigration attorneys will provide an overview of the current state of the U.S. immigration system; an update on the efforts of Congress to pass an immigration reform law; and a proposal for genuine immigration reform.

 

This event will mark the launching of The Migrant Center at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. The Migrant Center is a church ministry that aims to provide pastoral care and advocate for the protection of the rights of immigrants.

 

Towards the end of the forum, leaders from different immigrant/migrant organizations and institutions will be signing a statement of support for our immigrant/migrant brothers and sisters.  This will be sent to government officials and politicians making them aware of the urgent need for a comprehensive immigration reform bill.

 

Attached are fliers, in English and Spanish, which includes directions to the venue.  Please help publicize the event by forwarding the fliers to your network of contacts and friends.

 

I am looking forward to your participation in this noble effort to support our immigrant sisters and brothers.

 

Very truly yours,

 

Fr. Julian S. Jagudilla, OFM

Director

The Migrant Center at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi

 

15 Year Old Filipino-American New Jersey Resident, Kirby Asunto, Gives Back To The Community

(Kirby Asunto with Rev. Fr. Edgardo P. Jocson, Pastor of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Roman Catholic Church in Linden, NJ)

 

Every up and coming singer remembers the first time they realized singing is their passion. For New Jersey based Kirby Asunto, it came when she was but four years old.

 

She first began to warble at the age of 2, even before she started to read!  At 4 years old, she came home from school and announced to her mother that she joined a singing contest at her school. During that time, she learned to sing various songs by listening to the music of Barney, an American children's television show character. Since then, Asunto joined the singing contest every year and also took voice lessons to fulfill her dreams of one day being a professional singer.

 

In 2006, Asunto, together with her family, migrated from the Philippines to the United States. Wanting to further her singing career, she joined singing competitions such as The Access Broadway. She was met with success by becoming the Regional and National champion.

 

She has earned high recognition in the Filipino-American communities in NJ, NY, CT and DC even in her tender age. In addition to performing at various events, she also has, under her belt, the grand champion of the Philippine Fiesta Grand Idol singing competition and a performance at one of the biggest Korean shows in the US. There is the added  highlight of having wowed the crowd in the New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs in Madison Square Garden in 2011.

FALDEF Announces the 2013 Defend, Serve, Educate (DSE) Trailblazers/Awardees

The Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Inc.(FALDEF)

proudly presents the

 

2013 Defend, Serve, Educate (DSE) Trailblazer Awardees

 

DEFEND:

Organization: NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund

Individual: Sanford A. Rubenstein, Esq, Senior Partner Rubenstein & Rynecki

 

SERVE:    

Organization: Texas Regional Public Defenders Office for Capital Crimes

Individual: Johanna Puno Hester, Pres. APALA, AFL-CIO

 

 

EDUCATE:

Organization: New Jersey State Nurses Association

Individual: A. Gabriel Esteban, Ph.D. President, Seton Hall University

 

Join us as we honor the 2013 DSE Trailblazers at our 1st DSE Gala and Awards Night on October 26, 2013

 

Keynote Speaker

Sherrilyn A. Ifill, President & Director-Counsel

NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.

 

Featured Speaker

Ms. Johanna Puno Hester, National President

The Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, AFL-CIO

 

Reception starts at 6:30 PM.

Program/Dinner/Dance at 7:30 PM

Attire: Formal

Donation: $75

Payable to FALDEF at the door or mail to:

4West 43rd St, Suite 505

New York, NY 10036

Attention: Nimfa Du Tinana

 

For any other questions and information about advertising and sponsorship, please call:

Lito Pernia (646) 667-6140

Rose Rosales (908) 358-6812

Cely Deauna (201) 501-8388

Nimfa Du Tinana (908) 494-4014

 

RSVP no later than October 12, 2013 via EVITE or email us at DSE@faldef.org

 

 

 

FALDEF is Now Accepting Nominations for the 1st DSE Trailblazer Awards

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

 

Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Inc. (FALDEF) announces its search for the first Defend Serve and Educate ("DSE") awardees which will be featured on FALDEF's First Annual DSE Gala Night on Saturday, October 26, 2013 at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel (formerly Sheraton) in Newark Airport.

The DSE Gala is an opportunity to encourage our members and community to live out FALDEF’s mission to defend, serve and educate for the greater good.  It is also an opportunity to recognize individuals who have shown a deep commitment to these values in the spirit of public service. 

 

The DSE awards will honor trailblazers in the legal profession, the arts, the business world and the civil rights community whose extraordinary work and achievements have contributed to advancing FALDEF's mission to defend, serve and educate members of the community.

 

Anyone can nominate a DSE Trailblazer. There is no limit to the number of nominations an individual can make.

 

To nominate a DSE Trailblazer, please follow the steps:

• Nominations for the 2013 DSE Trailblazer Awards should be submitted to DSEawards@faldef.org Include a brief description of the individual's accomplishments (300 words max)
• Include a testimonial on how the individual's contributions to the community reflects FALDEF's mission to Defend, Serve and Educate (300 words max)
• Submit a photograph (jpeg format) of the nominee.

 

Awardees will be selected by FALDEF's DSE Committee based on a careful review of the submissions.

 

 

 

Here are the criteria:

Defend - The Defense Award is designated for an attorney whose work on behalf of the Filipino/minority immigrant community has had national and/or international impact. The recipient must demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting justice and social change both in and out of the courtroom.

 

Serve - The Service Award is designated for an individual from any sector whose dedication to public service has had a significant impact on the community, national, or international level. The individual's overall accomplishments must reflect the high tradition of selfless public service that is at the core of FALDEF's mission.

 

Educate - The Education Award is designated for an individual from any sector whose work has contributed significantly to the education of the public on social and/or political issues that are highly relevant to minority immigrant communities. The individual's work must reflect FALDEF's mission to empower the community through education.

 

Important Deadlines:

September 15. Last day to submit nominations.

October 15. DSE Selection Committee Final voting tallies.

 

For more information about FALDEF's 1st DSE Trailblazer Awards, please contact Patricia Astorga at DSEawards@faldef.org .

 

 

Click HERE to download the DSE Trailblazer Award Nomination Entry Form

HELP WANTED: MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS INTERNS

The Filipino American Legal Defense & Education Fund, Inc. (FALDEF) is  uniquely set-up as the Filipino American legal defense group, of national scope, in the United States.  Based in New York, it provides pro bono legal services to members of the Filipino American community who are suffering legal injustices by reason of their immigrant origins and status and unable to engage legal aid and assistance on account of poverty.

 

FALDEF is dedicated to providing a forum for education, advocacy and scholarships aimed at educating and advancing the interests of the Filipino American community on issues and matters pertinent to immigrant and civil rights.

 

Position: 2 Marketing and Communications Interns

 

Description: FALDEF seeks dynamic, self-starter to assist marketing and communications efforts. The internship is an excellent opportunity to experience various aspects of marketing and journalism while working for a growing and known non-profit organization that supports equal access to justice.

 

Responsibilities:

• Update and maintain FALDEF's website, social media presence, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Blogger: Compile, write, edit, proof, maintain and create new pages and management of graphics, texts, images and video.
• Draft, distribute and pitch news releases, media alerts and other stories
• Plan and facilitate Marketing Committee meetings including distributing agenda and taking minutes
• Assist in planning FALDEF sponsored events such as education workshops, free legal clinics, and advocacy meetings
• Attend FALDEF sponsored events and write articles and reflections about the event, the attendees, and the benefits of the events to the community
• Gather written and video testimonials from clients and organizations
• Actively monitor all media to identify stories, current news and development of interest to the organization's advocacies
• Manage the calendar of events through Google calendar and the FALDEF website
• Gather contact lists and ensure that the lists are up-to-date and are used effectively to promote all events and advocacies
• Assist in planning, writing and managing the quarterly eNewsletter
• Work closely with other areas to help craft and implement communications strategy, coordinate media pitching and maintain consistency in organizational messaging.
• Develop a marketing and communications budget
• Design fliers, graphics, e-vites and other marketing materials for major events hosted by FALDEF
• Organize and attend committee meetings including preparing agenda and project plans
• Reach out to community organizations, general public and donors with the message about FALDEF's mission to help support equal access to justice

 

Qualifications:

• Firm grasp of available tools and platforms of social media space
• Completed or working toward a college degree, preferably in a related field (e.g. English, Marketing/Communications, or Public Relations)
• Previous internship or related experience in marketing and communications is a plus
• Must be computer literate (working knowledge of word processing, Power Point, Excel, Publisher). Knowledge of graphics design is a plus
• An effective communicator, both written and oral
• A good sense of humor
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team-oriented environment
• Ability to communicate in  a professional manner with  press and community contacts
• Self-motivated, good organizational skills, detail-oriented, ability to prioritize, multi-task and meet deadlines
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Strong attention to detail
• A strategic thinker who likes to think out of the box and proactively comes up with solutions
• Enthusiasm for the mission and values of  FALDEF, our clients and the communities we serve

 

Start Date: Position open until filled, requires 6 month commitment

 

Hours: 10-15 hours a week. (Telecommute except when attending meetings and events)

 

Compensation: This is an Unpaid/Volunteer internship

 

To Apply:  Please send a cover letter and resume to volunteer@faldef.org

FALDEF offers FREE Legal Clinic

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund (FALDEF) held an event at the Philippine Consulate in New York on Friday June 7^th, 2013. It was a free legal clinic that had a plethora of lawyers with a wide variety of different specializations. The lawyers for the event ranged from various fields including immigration, prosecution, and criminal and even included a judge. The team that was involved in this event was highly prepared to tackle any case presented to them. There were a sense of diversity and well-rounded professionalism in the room.

Not even the heavy summer rain could stop the volunteers from FALDEF, National Federation of Filipino American Associations Region 1 (NaFFAA R1), Pilipino American Unity for Progress (UniPro) , Filipino American Lawyers of NY (FALANY), South Asian Bar Association of NY (SABANY) and the Philippine Consulate General of NY (PCGNY). The men and women, from different stations, became one in hope and aspiration for others.

 As a welcoming to the lawyers and the volunteers, FALDEF President, Attorney JTS Mallonga, gave a few words of appreciation and expectations to get the event started. The way it was organized began at two tables of 3 volunteers each with a general intake form as a preliminary step. After going through the general details of the client’s case, the volunteer would assign a specific lawyer indicated to handle it best. In order to provide the highest quality legal assistance possible, more than one lawyer would provide advice and feedback per case.

"This set-up was especially helpful because it made the client’s profile stronger. Most of the client’s at this free legal assistance clinic come for purposes of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), even though it is open to all kinds of legal cases.  Ultimately if we help at least one client, our efforts were put to great use. We will continue helping the Filipino- American community, but we welcome all people in need of legal assistance!" one of the FALDEF legal assistants said.

"FALDEF has given me a chance to fulfill my dreams and goals that I would have otherwise missed. I know that they have given it their all on helping me win my case and without them I wouldn't be here today. They have brought the "New York" way to Texas and helped me stay with my family and friends. They have given me the opportunity to care for my younger brother and be a father figure for him, see him grow, and help my family." said John Quidilla, a client of FALDEF who received his DACA work permit on May 2013.

FALDEF offers FREE Legal Clinic every week. To make an appointment please call (212) 221-1888 or email us at legalaid@faldef.org

This article is a collaboration of FALDEF's legal assistants and interns.


        

Trafficking: Current News and Development

submitted by FALDEF interns

 

US 7-Eleven Stores Under Investigation for Allegedly Exploiting Filipino Employees 

Inquirer, GlobalNation, reported that several 7-Eleven convenience stores in Long Island, New York and Virginia are under investigation for allegedly exploiting Filipino immigrants under a scheme similar to that of a "modern-day plantation system" where their wages are withheld and their employment concealed under stolen identities.

Full article available at:

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/77969/us-7-11-stores-rapped-for-exploiting-filipinos#ixzz2WfWbkceN

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Blue Campaign by Department of Homeland Security aims to combat human trafficking

 

The federal government is taking news steps to bring the crime of human trafficking to light and help victims of the often hidden crime.

The Department of Homeland Security aims to do this through the Blue Campaign, and will launch a logo, website and a mission statement. The effort also includes the distribution of posters, tip sheets and public service announcements about trafficking.

"It is such an insidious crime that is often not recognized enough," Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano told USA TODAY. "We want to bring it out of the shadows, go after the perpetrators, and we want to make sure the victims are taken care of."

 

Full article available at
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/06/05/blue-campaign-by-dhs-aims-to-combat-human-trafficking/2389639/

 

Authorities launch Orlando human-trafficking task force

Florida has one of the highest instances of human trafficking in the country.

Orange County leads the state in the number of human trafficking cases referred.

Teenage girls who are trafficked into Orlando are often forced into prostitution.

 

Full article available at
http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2013-06-03/news/os-human-trafficking-task-force-20130603_1_task-force-human-trafficking-pria-gunn

 

World-renowned boxer Manny Pacquiao joins fights against human trafficking

 

Manny Pacquiao has partnered with anti-trafficking organization Visayan Forum to help victims of human trafficking in the Philippines.

The organization, headed by human rights pioneer Cecilia Flores-Oeband, has helped more than 15,000 young girls since it began.

Cecilia and Visayan Forum run halfway houses for girls all over the country, four support centers for domestic workers and one safe house, a home for those worst affected.

Full article available at 

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2326102/Philippines-horror-child-sex-worker-exposed-boxer-Manny-Pacquiao-joins-fight-vile-trade.html#ixzz2VMp0CLkM 

 

Filipina threatened to return to the Philippines if she did not obey the rules of alleged human traffickers, court in Canada hears

Leticia Sarmento, a Filipina nanny, told a B.C Supreme Court that her employers threatened to send her back home to the Philippines if she complained about her 16-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week work schedule in Vancouver.

Sarmiento testified that her employers repeatedly called her stupid in Chinese while poking her in the head.

She was never allowed to have private phone calls or leave the house without one of her employers accompanying her.

The trial is currently ongoing.

Full article available at

http://www.theprovince.com/news/Human+trafficking+trial+hears+nanny+fears+return/8463171/story.html

 

Human Trafficking Resources, News and Development are available at our website:
http://faldef.org/index.php/human-trafficking-resources

A DREAMer's story: FALDEF Client, John Quidilla

Hi my name is John Quidilla. I live here in Plano, Texas with my family.

I moved to here in March 1999 with my family for my father’s work with a Visa. I finished middle school, high school, and started college here.  On July 20, 2008 my father passed away.  Along with this my family’s Green card process was stopped. My mom and siblings were able to retain their legal status, but my application for a student Visa was denied. My family and I thought it would be best for me to finish college here and go from there.

In November of 2011 I was picked up by I.C.E. early morning at my home. I was detained and taken to a detention center to be questioned. I waited in a holding cell for a couple of hours but was released on bail and allowed to go home later that day.

My mom searched for lawyers and found FALDEF. She called them to ask for help and they agreed to work on my case. After 3 court dates, President Obama’s executive order and 8 months after filing for DACA, I finally get my Employment Authorization card.

Thanks to the help and support of FALDEF, Phil-Am Chamber of Commerce of Texas, friends and family that I am still here today.

Live Band Night at Payag featuring Fil-Harmonic for the benefit of FALDEF

by Cecilia R. Mejia

 

 



(Photo booth pictures by Joven Jose)

 

 On Friday, May 17, Payag Restaurant, in Sunnyside Queens, hosted a benefit show for the Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund. The show was part of a Live Band Series that the restaurant hosts. The night featured the most popular band of the series, the FilHarmonic Band, who so bigheartedly put on a show in support of the organization. Guest of FALDEF, FilHarmonic and PAYAG joined in a night of music, laughter, and good times.  Thanks to the generous donation of Hocus Focus Inc, there was also a photo booth set up for guests to enjoy. The night was a success in many ways, more importantly the work of FALDEF was brought to the attention of those in the Community, as Payag Manager so adamantly stated, “Every Filipino should be supporting your organization.” 

 

We are proud to announce that there will be another event for the benefit FALDEF at Payag featuring the FilHarmonic Band on Friday, June 21. 



NCAPA Applauds Confirmation of Sri Srinivasan to U.S. Court of Appeals

 

 

WASHINGTON—The National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA), a coalition of 30 national Asian Pacific American organizations, released the following statement on today’s confirmation of Sri Srinivasan to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

 

“This Senate confirmation is of tremendous significance to our community,’’ said Deepa Iyer, chair of NCAPA and executive director of South Asian Americans Leading Together. “Sri Srinivasan is the first South Asian American federal appellate court judge in the history of the United States, as well as the first Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AA & NHPI) judge to serve on the D.C. Circuit.”

 

Srinivasan’s confirmation helps diversify the federal bench as he will become only the third AA & NHPI federal appellate court judge out of approximately 175 nationwide.

 

"We are deeply gratified that the Senate has confirmed Sri Srinivasan today," said Wendy C. Shiba, president of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA).  "Given that over 3.5 million South Asian Americans live in the United States, it is particularly noteworthy that Srinivasan has made history by becoming the first-ever South Asian American federal appellate court judge.  Moreover, the D.C. Circuit long has been recognized as one of the most important courts in the country.  The presence of an Asian Pacific American on that court gives testament to the strides made by the Asian Pacific American community in recent years.  It is a fitting and momentous way to conclude and celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month." 

 

Srinivasan, who is currently the principal deputy solicitor general of the United States, has deep experience in government, including having argued 25 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He also was in private practice for many years, at the law firm of O’Melveny & Myers, where he was partner and chair of the Supreme Court and Appellate Practice.

 

"Sri Srinivasan is an exceptional attorney with a long history of work in civil rights," said Mee Moua, president and executive director of the Asian American Justice Center (AAJC), member of the Asian American Center for Advancing Justice. "In private practice he handled some of the most important Supreme Court cases pro bono for AAJC and for the greater civil rights community. We congratulate him on his historic confirmation and look forward to his tenure on the D.C. Circuit."

 

Born in India, Srinivasan immigrated to the United States with his family and later became a naturalized citizen. He was raised in Lawrence, Kan., and later went on to earn his undergraduate, business and law degrees at Stanford University.

 

 

 

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The National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA), founded in 1996, is a coalition of thirty national Asian Pacific American organizations. Based in Washington D.C., NCAPA serves to represent the interests of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AA & NHPI) community and to provide a national voice on policy issues and priorities.