Filipino Families in Ballymena Evacuate Amid Anti-Immigrant Violence

BALLYMENA, Northern Ireland – In a shocking display of anti-immigrant violence, Filipino families residing in Ballymena were forced to evacuate their homes following a night of terror marked by rioting and property damage. The incidents occurred on June 10, 2025, when masked individuals targeted homes and vehicles in the predominantly pro-British town, which has a significant immigrant population. Michael Sancio, a local resident originally from the Philippines, recounted the harrowing experience, stating, "I woke up at midnight to the sound of masked men banging on our windows."

In the wake of the violence, many Filipino residents have taken measures to distinguish themselves from the Romanian community, which has been implicated in a recent legal case involving two 14-year-old boys accused of serious sexual assault. Residents have placed stickers of the British and Philippine flags on their doors with messages such as "Filipino lives here" to assert their identity and safety amidst growing tensions.

According to local law enforcement, the violence is being investigated as racially-motivated hate crimes. The unrest began after the aforementioned court appearance of the two boys, which reportedly sparked concerns and anger among local residents, leading to aggressive protests that turned violent. The police have expressed their readiness for potential further violence as the community grapples with the aftermath of these events.

Historically, Northern Ireland has been more familiar with sectarian violence, particularly between Catholics and Protestants, rather than anti-immigrant sentiments. However, recent incidents indicate a troubling shift in this dynamic. Local lawmaker Sian Mulholland emphasized the fear felt by many families, stating, "I have been receiving calls from migrant families who feel unsafe in their homes."

Despite Northern Ireland's generally welcoming stance towards migrants, recent events have raised alarms about the safety and security of immigrant communities. As families like Sancio’s contemplate their future, they face difficult decisions amid escalating violence and hostility. The local government, including Democratic Unionist Party councillor Lawrie Philpott, has urged community solidarity to prevent further violence and protect all residents, regardless of their background.

The Filipino community in Ballymena, which constitutes a significant portion of the town's foreign-born population, now finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with the implications of this violence and the need for increased support and protection from local authorities. As they board windows and doors in preparation for possible future attacks, the question remains: how can communities ensure the safety and well-being of all their members in a climate of fear and division?

As the situation develops, it serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant communities in the UK and the need for inclusive dialogue and proactive measures to foster understanding and acceptance among all residents.