Obama directive halts deportation of thousands of young Filipinos

President Barack Obama talks in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. AP/Susan Walsh

LOS ANGELES—US President Barack Obama Friday morning (Pacific Time) issued a directive halting the deportation of about 800,000 young immigrants, including thousands of Filipinos, who were brought to the United States illegally.

The directive, lauded by Filipino American groups as a significant step toward a comprehensive immigration reform, may make these young immigrants eligible for work permits.

“Effective immediately, young people who were brought to the United States through no fault of their own as children and who meet certain criteria will be eligible to receive deferred action for a period of 2 years and that period will be subject to renewal,” said Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano.

Obama will address the issue Friday afternoon from the White House.