The recent revocation of Ai-Ai delas Alas' petition for her estranged husband, Gerald Sibayan, to obtain a U.S. Green Card has thrust the complexities of spousal-based immigration into the spotlight. The high-profile case, involving a well-known Filipina actress, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of such applications and the significant impact of relationship breakdowns on immigration processes.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued the revocation notice on March 17, 2025, citing the couple's separation as the primary reason. Delas Alas, a popular Kapuso comedienne, had initially filed the Petition for Alien Relative for Sibayan on July 15, 2021, seeking to grant him permanent residency status in the United States based on their marriage. This type of petition requires demonstrating a bona fide marital relationship, meaning a genuine and ongoing commitment.
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However, the relationship soured dramatically. In October 2024, Sibayan abruptly ended the relationship via a Viber message, leaving Delas Alas to navigate not only the emotional turmoil of a broken marriage but also the legal ramifications for Sibayan's immigration status. The discovery of a "third party" further complicated the situation, prompting Delas Alas to appeal to the USCIS in January 2025, requesting the revocation of her petition. The USCIS granted her appeal, effectively ending Sibayan's path to permanent residency through this application.
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The USCIS decision, which stated, "After a thorough review of your petition and the record of evidence, we must inform you that the approval of your petition has been automatically revoked," highlights the stringent requirements for spousal-based Green Card applications. The agency clearly emphasizes the necessity of a genuine and continuing marital relationship. Any significant change in the relationship dynamic, such as separation or divorce, can jeopardize the petition's approval.
Delas Alas' case serves as a cautionary tale for couples pursuing spousal-based immigration. It underscores the importance of maintaining a stable and verifiable marital relationship throughout the entire application process. The emotional and legal complexities involved in such cases are significant, and the consequences of relationship breakdowns can be far-reaching, impacting not only the individuals involved but also their families and communities. The case also raises broader questions about the challenges faced by individuals navigating immigration processes, particularly those reliant on spousal sponsorship. The high profile nature of this situation has brought increased attention to the often-overlooked intricacies of immigration law and the critical need for clear communication and legal counsel throughout the process.
Ai-Ai Withdraws Petition, Leaving Gerald's US Residency in Limbo
Santa Ana, California – March 29, 2025 – Philippine entertainer Ai-Ai delas Alas has withdrawn her petition for her husband, Gerald, to become a permanent U.S. resident, leaving him facing an uncertain future in the United States. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a final decision, stating unequivocally, "There is no appeal to this decision."
According to Ai-Ai's legal counsel, Atty. Pia Dyquiangco of the Lewis Law Group, the withdrawal stems from the significant emotional distress Ai-Ai has experienced due to unspecified actions by Gerald. The withdrawal letter also includes a request for the revocation of Gerald's existing travel and work permits, effectively hindering his ability to work legally in the U.S.
Atty. Dyquiangco confirmed that Gerald will no longer benefit from Ai-Ai's petition. "It is Ai-Ai's prerogative as the petitioner whether to push through with the petition or not," Atty. Dyquiangco stated. "Because of the pending divorce, she is being truthful to USCIS about the state of her marriage. What he does after this is up to him, and with regard to his immigration, he is on his own."
The decision leaves Gerald to navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law independently. The implications of this withdrawal are significant, potentially impacting his ability to remain in the country and secure future employment. The specifics of Gerald's actions that led to the petition's withdrawal remain undisclosed. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
Ai-Ai Delas Alas Changes Tune on Gerald Sibayan's Green Card Application
Manila, Philippines - March 29, 2025 - Philippine entertainment icon Ai-Ai delas Alas has taken a dramatic turn regarding her husband Gerald Sibayan's application for a U.S. green card. Months ago, the "Comedy Queen" expressed her intention to support Sibayan's bid for permanent residency in the United States, even after their separation.
During an interview with Boy Abunda on November 11, 2024, on "Fast Talk," Ai-Ai stated, "Of course, initially, you're angry, you say all sorts of things, but I wouldn't do that. He’s still my husband, and it’s like my way of helping him to have legal status in America." She further explained that while Sibayan had not asked her to sacrifice her career, her frequent trips to the U.S. were primarily to be with him.
However, Ai-Ai's stance has shifted dramatically. It has been revealed that she recently withdrew her Petition for Alien Relative for Sibayan, effectively halting his application. This decision comes after Ai-Ai discovered a third party involved in their separation.
While Ai-Ai's reasons for withdrawing the petition are now clear, Sibayan has yet to publicly address the situation. His silence leaves fans and observers speculating on his next steps and the potential impact on his future in the United States. This developing story will be closely followed as more information emerges.
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Renowned Filipino Artist Juvenal Sansó Passes Away at 95
Philippines - March 29, 2025 - The Philippine art world mourns the loss of renowned painter and National Artist awardee Juvenal Sansó, who passed away on Friday, March 28, at the age of 95. Sansó, a Spanish-born Filipino known for his modernist style, left an indelible mark on the country's artistic landscape.
The Fundación Sansó, an art museum and organization dedicated to his legacy, described him as a highly respected figure among his peers and artists of different generations. "He was respected by his peers in the art community and by many artists from different generations; and in his later years, he was honored by myriad prestigious institutions. Yet for Sansó, art was his primary means for personal expression; a way to communicate the narrative of the personal pains, quiet healings, and public triumphs of his life," the Fundación Sansó stated in a press release.
Sansó was awarded the 2006 Presidential Medal of Merit in recognition of his significant contributions to the arts. His works continue to inspire and enrich Filipino culture. Numerous institutions have paid tribute to him in his later years.
Sansó's passing is a profound loss to the art world, but his creations will remain alive, serving as inspiration for generations of artists to come.