Family members and immigrant-rights advocates say Filipino national Raul Raagas may be transferred from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in New Jersey to another facility outside the state.
Raagas, known to supporters as “Kuya Raul,” is the subject of a grassroots campaign led by his family and the Tanggol Migrante Movement. The group says it is seeking information about his custody status and calling for support from Philippine consular officials.
In an update provided to TOFA NEWS, the group said Raagas could not be located through available ICE custody information. His attorney, according to the group, believes that may indicate a transfer is imminent.
The information could not be independently verified. ICE had not publicly confirmed a transfer, Raagas’ location or a possible destination at the time of publication.
Advocates said supporters went to the Elizabeth Detention Center in New Jersey to observe activity near the facility. They reported seeing an ICE vehicle that appeared ready to depart, but said they could not confirm whether Raagas was inside.
Other supporters went to Newark Liberty International Airport to watch for possible detainee transfers by air. The group said it was monitoring flights, including those bound for Louisiana, which advocates described as a possible destination for immigration detainees transferred from the Northeast. Raagas’ final destination, if he is transferred, was not known.
The Tanggol Migrante Movement said it contacted the Philippine Consulate General in New York to request assistance for Raagas and his family. According to the group, consular officials said they would advocate for his welfare and explore available channels regarding a possible transfer.
The group planned a protest outside the consulate at 2 p.m. Saturday, urging the office to provide assistance and seek clarity on Raagas’ custody status.
The Philippine Consulate General in New York serves Filipinos in the Northeast and maintains an Assistance to Nationals program for Philippine citizens facing emergencies and other difficulties.
Advocates said Raagas’ case has drawn support from Filipino immigrant community members concerned that an out-of-state transfer could make it harder for him to remain in contact with family, legal counsel and local supporters.
The campaign said it would continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
For information about the campaign, contact Tanggol Migrante Movement Northeast spokesperson Kort Lee at tmmnortheast@proton.me or 929-900-1421.
