Filipino nurses still in demand in US, but wary of immigration policy
The United States remains in need of healthcare workers, including Filipinos, but some applicants are heedful of the strict immigration policy of the new administration, according to a report on Saksi by JP Soriano.
Bianca and Frances are among the new nurses who plan to try their luck in the US, where they have relatives.
"There are push and pull factors that push nurses to really go abroad —poor work condition, low pay, and you will grow more professionally once you get out of the country," said Frances Campomanes.
But both Frances and fellow nurse, Bianca Louise Carino are aware of the ongoing crackdown against illegal immigrants.
“I think the US will be stricter in accepting workers from other countries this time," Carino said in Filipino.
US Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay Carlson earlier said Americans have high regard and respect for Filipino nurses who gave their service during the pandemic years.
Carlson said the Trump administration would certainly recognize the hard work and good nature of Filipino nurses.
According to the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA), the continuous demand in the US for healthcare workers will offer employment opportunities to Filipinos.
"They know our nurses are compassionate, well trained, very knowledgable on the clinical aspects. Nursing is not just about human technology, it's also about the human caring touch," said Bob Gahol, PNAA president.
Campomanes agreed, "Not to boast, but Filipino nurses are very great nurses, despite the immigration worries, I think they still need us."
To date, around 200,000 Filipino nurses are working in the US, or close to four percent of its five million nurses.
Since taking office on 20 January, President Donald Trump has announced a series of immigration-related executive orders, including efforts to crack down on undocumented migrants in America.
Among the dozens of undocumented workers affected by the policy are 16 Filipinos who are scheduled to be deported in the country.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued a directive to assist the deportees with livelihood training and other support.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in partnership with an employment website recently organized a Career Con for job seekers.
Marcos underscored the need of Filipinos to have "quality jobs."
"Kailangan, kung anuman ang hawak nilang trabaho eh dapat tinatawag na quality job na may potential na mapromote, mas maging maganda o sakali man ay magtayo ng negosyo (What our workers need are quality jobs where they have a potential for promotion or opportunities to build their own businesses)," Marcos said.
DOLE said it plans to hold a monthly job fair to help Filipinos find gainful employment. —LDF, GMA Integrated News