The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a foreign couple in Siargao for allegedly operating a resort business while holding only tourist visas.

The BI identified the two foreign nationals as Teryn Jane Spencer, a New Zealand national, and Dario Salvatore Di Capua, a Swiss national.

The two were arrested during an enforcement operation at a resort in San Isidro, Siargao, after authorities discovered they were operating various services, including homestay, café, and yoga sessions.

“The operation was launched following intelligence information that the couple had been personally managing the homestay and café while also offering yoga sessions to guests without the required work visas or permits,” according to BI.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that “a tourist visa is not a license to work or run a business in the Philippines.”

He also stated that foreigners who abuse their privilege to stay by engaging in unauthorized activities must face corresponding consequences.

“We welcome foreign visitors who respect our laws, but those who abuse the privilege of their stay by engaging in unauthorized employment or business activities will be arrested, deported, and barred from returning. No one is exempt from our immigration laws.”

The couple will undergo deportation proceedings, according to BI.

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