Yho Villavicencio, the group’s designated spokeswoman, told Variety that their supporters “come and go” to express sympathy with their cause.
“Because some of us are working we have different schedules when coming here,” she said.
As of 5 p.m. yesterday, about 154 individuals registered at the makeshift tent near the Liberty Department Store across from the TSL Plaza where the office of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is located.
Walter L. Haith, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field office director, said the assembly was peaceful.
“They haven’t interfered with our operations at all. We understand their concern and they’ve very cooperative with our needs to continue our operations,” he told Variety.
Haith said the group did not ask to meet anyone from their office.
Malou Berueco, one of the organizers of the rally, said “we are professionals who don’t want to appear dishonorable.”
She said the banners and streamers that were displayed do not carry derogatory or critical messages against anyone.
“We come here in a peaceful way to express our appeal,” she added.
Boni Sagana, Dekada Movement president, said the assembly was very peaceful.
Sagana said the gathering would be larger after office hours.
Rene Reyes, Coalition of United Workers leader, said they may seek assistance from the Philippine government to support their appeal.
He said their employment as guest workers in the CNMI will be affected by the implementation of the federalization law in November.
“I hope our president, even our senators, can help us appeal to the U.S. government to give nonresident guest workers an improved immigration status,” he said.
Rabby Syed, United Workers Movement president, said he opposes Gov. Benigno R. Fitial’s proposal to delay, this time for a year, the implementation of the federalization law.
“This is not good for the economy and the guest workers,” Syed said.
Villavicencio said their group has been receiving food and drinks from supporters, including businessmen and private individuals.
The Bangladesh community will serve fried rice for today’s lunch.
The group also received cash donations that amounted to $80 as of 5 p.m. yesterday.
