Filipino-American leaders are alarmed about a new 3.5% tax on international remittances introduced under President Donald Trump’s economic reform bill. James Zarsadiaz, director of the Yuchengco Philippine Studies Programme, said: “For decades, Filipinos in the U.S. have often been in the top five countries for remittances . . . the fact that those [remittances] will be taxed now is going to have an impact on how much they receive on their end and their livelihoods in the Philippines.” In 2024, Filipinos in the U.S. sent over $14bn to the Philippines. Community leaders argue that the bill, which also allocates $100bn to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, will exacerbate the struggles of working-class migrants. They warn that the long-term effects could diminish access to essential services and increase financial burdens on families. Activists are calling for the Philippine government to advocate for the rights of Filipino workers abroad.
