Akbayan Rep Demands Arrest and Deportation of Israeli Attackers in Siargao

Akbayan Partylist Representative Dadah Kiram Ismula 

Akbayan Rep Demands Arrest and Deportation of Israeli Attackers in Siargao

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | May 20, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – Akbayan Partylist Representative Dadah Kiram Ismula has issued a forceful directive to the Philippine National Police (PNP), urging the immediate identification, apprehension, and initiation of deportation proceedings against Israeli nationals accused of violently assaulting Filipino café owners in Siargao. Rep. Ismula simultaneously challenged the Israeli Embassy to actively cooperate with law enforcement in tracking down the alleged perpetrators.

The demand follows disturbing reports from May 11, where two individuals, identified by local witnesses as Israeli tourists, allegedly assaulted café owners and destroyed security cameras. The attack reportedly stemmed from their objection to a pro-Palestinian flag displayed on the premises.

“We must protect Filipinos in Siargao,” asserted Rep. Ismula. “A week has passed since this assault, yet no arrests have been made, nor have the identities or whereabouts of these Israeli attackers been confirmed. These perpetrators must not evade justice.”

Rep. Ismula escalated her call, directly challenging the Israeli Embassy to demonstrate its commitment to Philippine law and diplomatic relations by actively assisting in the identification and apprehension of their citizens. This challenge comes in the wake of public statements from the embassy regarding the incident.

The diplomatic mission, led by Ambassador Dana Kursh and Consul Moti Cohen, recently visited Siargao. Their visit included crucial discussions with General Luna Mayor Johnson Y. Sajulga and Vice Mayor Romina Rusillon-Sajulga, followed by a tense dialogue with over 70 local business owners.

Central to these meetings were widespread grievances concerning the behavior of some Israeli visitors, now amplified by the widely reported assault.

“We came because we care about people, tourism, and the friendship between Israelis and Filipinos,” Ambassador Kursh stated, acknowledging the precarious community relations. The forum became a platform for locals to detail complaints, from disrespect for customs to serious allegations of aggression.

Ambassador Kursh and Consul Cohen were unequivocal: “All visitors are expected to respect Philippine laws, local culture, and community values.” While asserting that most Israeli tourists appreciate Siargao’s charm, the Embassy strongly urged incident reporting to local authorities for legal prosecution.

“If the Embassy of Israel is serious about respecting our laws and preserving diplomatic ties, we challenge them to help locate, identify, and surrender their nationals who assaulted Filipinos,” Rep. Ismula declared.

She underscored that this is not an isolated incident, citing a similar brawl in April 2023 at Siargao Beach Club involving Israeli and American tourists, which the local government of General Luna had previously condemned.

“Foreigners who are rude and violent towards Filipinos are not welcome here. To those who exploit our hospitality, pack up and leave,” concluded Akbayan Rep. Ismula.