Los Angeles: The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles confirmed on Tuesday that a Filipino national was arrested during an immigration operation conducted by United States authorities in Los Angeles, California. Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz disclosed that the individual, who had been previously sentenced for theft and rape, was apprehended at his residence.

According to Philippines News Agency, Cruz clarified in an interview with GMA News that the arrest was not part of the widely publicized raids that took place, mostly at a home depot center. Instead, the arrest was a result of operations conducted by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Details regarding the identity of the arrested national have not been disclosed, respecting the privacy wishes of the individual's next-of-kin.

The Filipino national is expected to face deportation due to his criminal sentence, and the consulate has expressed its readiness to provide the necessary consular assistance. Meanwhile, Los Angeles witnessed massive protests over the weekend in response to the Trump administration's mass immigration raids in the area. Consul General Cruz noted that no Filipinos have been reported arrested during these protests.

Cruz emphasized that the protests were concentrated in federal buildings and do not reflect the overall safety and security of Los Angeles County or the city itself. He assured that the Filipino-American community in LA remains generally safe, as most are refraining from participating in the demonstrations.