The Bureau of Immigration warned foreign nationals in Siargao that they will face sanctions for violating immigration laws. Spokesperson Dana Sandoval said authorities are monitoring foreigners following reports of alleged misconduct by Israeli nationals. Violators may face deportation and blacklisting.
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration stated that authorities are monitoring the movements of foreign nationals in Siargao following reports of alleged misconduct by Israeli nationals.
In a message to Philstar.com on Tuesday, April 7, Bureau of Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval said they are taking social media reports seriously. “We have seen the posts on social media and we are taking reports about foreign nationals very seriously. Foreigners found to be violating immigration laws will definitely face sanctions,” Sandoval said.
“If found to have violated immigration laws, violators may face deportation and blacklisting,” she added.
Social media sentiments mention Israeli nationals allegedly abusing and exploiting Filipino locals. Siargao-based NGO Project Paradise compiled complaints as early as April, documenting issues like lack of respect for local traditions, noise pollution, dangerous driving, failure to observe modest dress codes in rural areas, and environmental neglect such as littering on beaches and conservation zones, according to president Sofia Nicole de Asis.
“For us, this development doesn’t pose an issue. Being Jewish is not a nationality, and our mission is not to police identity, but to promote coexistence, responsibility, and respect for the island. Our focus is on behavior, not background,” De Asis said, according to Arab News.
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism said it echoed locals' sentiments to the Embassy of Israel in Manila.
