The recent arrest of ten foreign nationals in Siargao island underscores the government's commitment to protecting communities while preserving the country's reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for legitimate visitors, Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Viado said Tuesday.

"The Philippines remains open to tourists, investors, students, and foreign residents who respect our laws and our people. However, foreign nationals who abuse our hospitality by violating our immigration laws or engaging in unlawful activities should expect to face the full force of the law," Viado said.

The BI Commissioner said the operation forms part of the Bureau's continuing efforts to strengthen its immigration presence in Siargao island following his recent dialogue with local government officials.

He said the Bureau has intensified independent immigration enforcement operations, expanded coordination with local government units and law enforcement agencies, enhanced intelligence sharing, and rolled out immigration law enforcement and capacity-building programs for local government partners to improve the detection and reporting of immigration violations.

Viado emphasized that BI enforcement is based solely on violations of law and not on nationality, race, or religion.

He also thanked local government units, law enforcement agencies, tourism stakeholders, business establishments, and members of the community for their continued cooperation and vigilance.

Viado said the Bureau will continue strengthening its partnerships with local stakeholders through sustained coordination, information sharing, joint operations, and immigration law enforcement training to build a more responsive and community-based enforcement network.