Detained Immigrant with Cancer Misses Vital Treatments

Detainment of Elderly Man Sparks Concerns

Loreto Javar, a 76-year-old man from Fife, Washington, facing advanced prostate cancer, has been detained by federal immigration officials for over two months. His detainment has resulted in missed critical treatments, as confirmed by his family and advocates. Since June 23, Javar has been held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma following his detainment during a citizenship interview in Tukwila.

Health Concerns and Detention Conditions

Javar, originally from the Philippines and a green card holder, suffers from stage 4 prostate cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to his daughter, Daisy Javar. Despite his health conditions, Daisy disclosed receiving an extension for her father’s case till September 20, which she termed a setback, leading to another missed oncology appointment. Daisy also criticized erratic mealtimes affecting her father’s recovery, although medication has been administered timely.

Allegations and Legal Background

The detention reportedly followed allegations of Javar’s involvement in a 1970s altercation in the Philippines, resulting in a fatality. He served about three years in prison there before parole, as per court documents cited by the Seattle Times. Daisy alleged possible entrapment during the citizenship interview. The family demands more humane treatment from immigration officials.

Moe Cinco, an organizer for the Tanggol Migrante Movement, highlighted Javar’s missed oncology appointments due to his detainment. Cinco urged for Javar’s release before his next cancer treatment on September 4. The group is requesting urgent intervention from the Philippine consulate in Seattle.

Philippine Consulate Urged to Intervene

The failure of Philippine consulate to respond has been met with criticism. A petition with over 150 signatures calls for consulate action, emphasizing the government’s neglect of overseas Filipinos subjected to repression. The petition underscores Javar’s contributions to the U.S. since 1995, contradicting his detention during a lawful pursuit of citizenship.

Immigration and Legal Challenges

ICE representatives indicated Javar’s previous undisclosed criminal conviction during his visa application in 1995, marking him ineligible for immigration. This undisclosed information at the time rendered him ineligible to remain in the U.S., according to an ICE spokesperson.

Family’s Hope for Release

Daisy Javar remains hopeful that federal officials will release her father on compassionate grounds. She remains optimistic about securing his release by the upcoming deadline to enable continuous cancer treatment.