Redwood City, CA, December 14, 2012 – Filipino seasonal workers who have sued their Miami-based employer for abuse and human trafficking may soon be issued T-Visas that will enable them to legally work in the United States.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS ) grants a ‘T Non Immigrant Status’ to those who have been victims of human trafficking, allowing victims to remain in the U.S. to assist in an investigation or prosecution of their case.
The group that calls themselves “Florida 15″ were recruited from the Philippines to work in Florida. They were made to pay an average of $7000 in placement and immigration fees but got paid below minimum wage with no overtime pay when they reached the US.
Aside from the late payment, the agency also failed to renew their H2-B visas without notifying the workers which led to the overstay status of the workers without proper documentation despite the workers’ consistent follow-up. The loss of immigration status also resulted to some being arrested by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Agency and are pending deportation.
Florida 15’s pro-bono lawyer Atty. Felix Vinluan filed a civil lawsuit against the San Villa Ship Management and its owner to claim unpaid wages and unpaid overtime pay as well as punitive damages.
The lawsuit calls for a trial by jury.
On Monday next week, the group is scheduled to be interviewed for their T-Visas.
“TNT”
Balitang America documentaries chronicled the struggle of these victims in a short film called, “TNT”, which was recognized as Best Documentary at the 2012 Migration Advocacy and Media Awards. The recognition is given in the Philippines by the Office of the President and the Commission of Filipinos Overseas.
In a statement, one of the victims, Cecile Delagado told Balitang America she is thankful that the piece enabled other victims of human trafficking in the U.S. to come out and tell their stories as well.
“Salamat for believing in us and for presenting it in a way that they would see us as an encouragement to all other victims of trafficking to come out and expose themselves. Salamat din for letting people realize that good things will happen to those who are telling the truth and that labeling one as a TNT will not in any way help their kababayans. Maraming salamat,” Delgado said.
Written and produced by ABS CBN North America Bureau Chief Nadia Trinidad, “TNT” is Balitang America’s first venture into documentary production. (Balitang America staff)
