The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested ten foreign nationals during intelligence-driven operations conducted across Siargao Island on June 26, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen immigration enforcement and protect local communities.
According to Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, the operations were carried out by the BI Intelligence Division Main Office and its Mindanao Intelligence Task Group following reports from residents and business owners regarding alleged immigration violations by foreign nationals in the island.
BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato S. Manahan, Jr. said the crackdown highlights the agency’s continued monitoring of major tourist destinations and cooperation with local communities.
“Our intelligence personnel continuously monitor reports from local communities and work closely with partner law enforcement agencies to ensure that foreign nationals comply with Philippine laws,” Manahan said.
Among those arrested were Israeli nationals allegedly found overstaying and working without proper permits, including individuals reportedly employed at an Israeli restaurant and managing a Jewish center without valid immigration documents. Other arrests included foreigners allegedly working in various sectors such as hospitality, food services, resort management, and entertainment without required visas or permits.
Authorities also apprehended individuals with prior immigration violations and criminal records, including overstaying foreign nationals and those tagged as undesirable aliens.
One Australian national was reported to have overstayed in the country for nine years while working in a hotel, while other foreign nationals from Morocco, Nigeria, Lithuania, and China were also arrested for various immigration infractions.
“The Philippines remains a welcoming destination for legitimate tourists and investors, but that hospitality should never be mistaken for tolerance of those who violate our laws,” Viado said, adding that more enforcement operations are expected in key tourist areas nationwide.
All ten foreign nationals are now under BI custody and will undergo immigration proceedings at the Bureau’s detention facility in Manila.
