June 30, 2026
MANILA – Ten foreign nationals were arrested in Siargao Island for allegedly violating immigration laws, including overstaying and working without proper documentation, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said Monday.
According to the BI, the 10 foreign nationals were apprehended in a series of intelligence-driven operations across the island on June 26 following reports from local residents and business owners.
Among those arrested were 22-year-old Israeli nationals Ben Yeshaya Menahem Mendel Rafael and Aharon Ida, who were found to have overstayed and worked without the required visas and permits.
“The two were reportedly employed at an Israeli restaurant and were also managing a Jewish center despite lacking the required immigration documents,” said the BI in a statement.
“They were likewise unable to present their passports during the operation,” it added.
Two other Israelis, 23-year-old Abeve Abeve Tewabe and 51-year old Etay Harari were also arrested for working in the island without the proper documentation.
Meanwhile, also arrested was a Moroccan national identified as Larbi Oirdi, 23, who is facing immigration charges as an undesirable alien in connection with his previous arrest for unjust vexation, direct assault, serious resistance and disobedience, among other offenses.
Australian national Lauren Elizabeth Fornazieri, 34, was also arrested after records showed that she had been overstaying in the country for nine years while working at a hotel in Siargao.
Other arrested foreign nationals are Nigerian Bill James Augustine, 27, who was apprehended for illegally working as a dog trainer; and Lithuanian Edgar Drozdov, 39, who was found managing a resort and working as a food delivery rider without the required permits.
Two Chinese nationals Zhu Guifu, 36, and Chen Anqi, 31, were also arrested while at a surf resort after records showed that they were overstaying and had existing blacklist records.
All 10 foreign nationals are currently held at the BI’s detention facility in Manila, where they will remain while undergoing immigration proceedings.
“The Philippines remains a welcoming destination for legitimate tourists, investors, and foreign visitors. Our people are known around the world for their hospitality,” BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said in a statement.
“But that hospitality should never be mistaken for tolerance of those who choose to violate our laws. Those who abuse the privilege of staying in our country must face the consequences,” he added.