Stay off leftist activities, foreign visitors warned
He also warned about the recruitment of foreign nationals through so-called exposure missions or solidarity tours.
He also warned about the recruitment of foreign nationals through so-called exposure missions or solidarity tours.
The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) over the weekebe cited the joint operation by the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police and Bureau of Immigration that led to the arrest of alleged New People’s Army member Binay Serrano, alias “Samay,” and American citizen Cristina Pasion in Cabuyao City, Laguna.
NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said the case highlights concerns over foreign nationals becoming involved in activities that may violate Philippine laws.
He said foreign nationals entering the country are expected to comply with Philippine laws, including immigration rules and prohibitions against involvement in unlawful political or armed activities.
Torres said Pasion’s presence with Serrano, who is wanted by authorities, as well as reports linking her to previous armed encounters in Mindoro, raised immigration and national security concerns.
He stressed, however, that the allegations remain subject to due process, investigation and appropriate legal proceedings. He said the Bureau of Immigration and other agencies would determine whether deportation or other sanctions are warranted under the law.
Torres added that evidence recovered from previous encounters, including handwritten notes and field reports, would be examined and subjected to legal scrutiny before any action is taken.
He also warned about the recruitment of foreign nationals through so-called “exposure missions” or “solidarity tours.”
“Such activities, while often presented as humanitarian or advocacy work, can place participants at serious legal and personal risk when they cross into involvement with armed groups,” Torres said.
He said the government continues to coordinate with international partners to monitor and prevent such recruitment efforts.
Torres also urged overseas Filipino communities, international student organizations and solidarity networks to remain vigilant against deceptive recruitment.
“Well-meaning individuals must be protected from being drawn into activities that may compromise their safety or violate Philippine laws,” he said.
He said the task force remains committed to enforcing the law, protecting Philippine sovereignty and ensuring due process in cases involving alleged links to armed groups.
