Dennis Gasgonia

Article (news)

Carlos Trazo

ABS-CBN News

MANILA (UPDATED) -- The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines recently held a Zoom dialogue with more than 70 business owners in Siargao to strengthen communication and address community concerns regarding tourist behavior on the island.The meeting followed the visit of Ambassador Dana Kursh and Consul Moti Cohen to Siargao, where they met with local government officials and community representatives. In General Luna, the officials also held meaningful meetings with Mayor Johnson Y. Sajulga, Vice Mayor Romina Rusillon-Sajulga, and other municipal leaders.<div><a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2026/5/4/israel-embassy-condemns-misbehavior-of-some-israelis-in-siargao-2025">Israel Embassy condemns misbehavior of some Israelis in Siargao</a></div>“We came because we care about people, tourism, and the friendship between Israelis and Filipinos,” Ambassador Kursh said. During the dialogue, participants raised questions and concerns about visitor conduct. Kursh and Cohen addressed these issues, reaffirming that “all visitors are expected to respect Philippine laws, local culture, and community values,” while emphasizing that the majority of Israeli tourists deeply appreciate Siargao, its people, and Filipino hospitality. The Embassy also encouraged that “concerns or incidents be properly reported to local authorities” to ensure appropriate action can be taken when necessary. Kursh further stressed that while the Embassy extends consular assistance to Israeli tourists, individuals who violate Philippine laws should be subject to the proper legal process. <div><a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/lifestyle/food-travel/2025/12/7/siargao-rides-a-new-wave-of-food-and-flavor-1204">Siargao rides a new wave of food and flavor </a> </div>&quot;If they are misbehaving, arrest them, press charges,&quot; Kursh said, stressing that consular assistance does not extend to shielding nationals from legal consequences. Kursh emphasized that embassies provide support for citizens in distress but respect the sovereignty of host countries in enforcing their laws.Kursh warned against generalizing Israeli tourists but also committed to raising the concerns over incidents involving them. She pledged to coordinate with Israeli media to reinforce messages on responsible conduct.The ambassador also plans to personally engage with Israeli nationals in Siargao to foster dialogue and understanding.Reports earlier this month said two Israeli nationals allegedly assaulted café owners in General Luna after seeing a pro-Palestinian flag displayed outside the establishment. The foreigners reportedly threw rocks, damaged CCTV equipment, and injured the owners, prompting condemnation from local officials and the Department of Tourism.

The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines recently held a Zoom dialogue with more than 70 business owners in Siargao to strengthen communication and address community concerns regarding tourist behavior on the island.

The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines recently held a Zoom dialogue with more than 70 business owners in Siargao to strengthen communication and address community concerns regarding tourist behavior on the island.

Amid concerns over tourist behavior, Israeli Embassy engages Siargao with community

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Amid concerns over tourist behavior, Israeli Embassy engages Siargao with community

Carlos Trazo,

ABS-CBN News

Published May 17, 2026 09:48 PM PHT

|

Updated May 18, 2026 12:33 AM PHT

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Israel Embassy

Siargao community

dialogue

Ambassador Dana Kursh

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