May 29, 2026
MANILA – The Philippine government has renewed calls for responsible travel following a series of violent incidents involving foreign tourists on this popular surfing island, sparking concerns over visitor behavior and local safety.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and local officials in General Luna—the island’s primary tourism hub—reiterated a stricter code of conduct for visitors after back-to-back altercations disrupted the island’s peaceful reputation.
“We are proud to share our beautiful islands, culture, and hospitality,” the General Luna local government said in a statement. “However, all tourists are expected to respect local laws, customs, and communities at all times.”
On April 8, local police intervened in a brawl between American and Israeli tourists at a bar inside the Siargao Beach Club. Authorities prevented the fight from escalating.
A month later, on May 10, two Israeli tourists allegedly attacked the owners of a local establishment for displaying a Palestinian flag.
Israeli Ambassador Dana Kursh said Israel does not condone behavior that disrespects local laws or communities. She said the altercation was an isolated event that should not define the broader Israeli tourist community.
Local officials condemned the clash, calling it “an affront to the safety and security that every Lunanian (resident of General Luna) and visitor deserves.”
Actress Andi Eigenmann, who relocated to the island nearly a decade ago, also expressed concern over the changing dynamics between tourists and locals.
“When I came to Siargao nine years ago, everyone else came here for similar reasons—the surf, the genuine love for the ocean, and longingness for a taste of the slow and simple life,” Eigenmann said.
“It breaks my heart seeing locals get pushed aside in their own home, by people who arrive here for their own pleasure, thinking paradise means freedom from accountability,” the actress said.
Hospitality is not an invitation to disrespect
The DOT said Filipino hospitality should not be mistaken for tolerance of disrespect.
“We, Filipinos, are known for our warmth, but hospitality is not an invitation to disrespect our people, our culture, or our laws,” the DOT said.
“When it comes to the law, no one gets special treatment,” it added. “We stand in defense of Siargao’s tourism, but more than that, we stand in defense of Filipino dignity and welfare.”
The Bureau of Immigration has ordered an increased presence of officers on the island to monitor complaints about overstaying foreigners, illegal employment, disorderly conduct and environmental violations.
Siargao has seen a massive influx of travelers in recent years. From January to August 2025, the island welcomed 242,560 tourists, consisting of 167,401 domestic travelers and 75,159 foreigners.
The General Luna Police Station has not released official data on the total number of tourist-related incidents recorded since the start of the year.
To mitigate further disruptions, the DOT’s Caraga regional office highlighted the following core guidelines under its traveler code of conduct:
- Law and cultural respect: Visitors must obey Philippine laws, respect local traditions, protect resident privacy, and ensure truthful social media sharing.
- Protection of the vulnerable: The DOT urged vigilance and immediate reporting of any signs of exploitation, human trafficking, or abuse targeting women, children, and the LGBTQ+ community.
- Public decorum: Tourists are advised to curb excessive noise, drink responsibly, dress appropriately, and maintain respectful behavior in public areas.
- Road and water safety: The guidelines emphasize swimming only in designated zones, monitoring children, wearing helmets on motorcycles, and strictly avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Environmental stewardship: Travelers are expected to minimize plastic waste, conserve water and energy, and dispose of trash properly to protect the island’s natural ecosystems.
Perspective
While the local government and tourism department have implemented these stricter guidelines, it remains to be seen how effectively a code of conduct can be enforced across a rapidly growing tourist destination without a significant increase in local law enforcement resources.