Manila: A ranking official of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said the recent arrest of a New People's Army (NPA) operative along with a Fil-American citizen in Calamba, Laguna, raises "legitimate immigration and national security concerns."
According to Philippines News Agency, NTF-ELCAC executive director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. referred to the joint police and military law enforcement operation that led to the arrest of NPA member Binay Serrano, alias "Samay," and American citizen Cristina Pasion last July 30. "The presence of Ms. Pasion alongside a wanted NPA personality, together with reports of her previous association with armed encounters in Mindoro, raises legitimate immigration and national security concerns," Torres stated over the weekend.
Torres mentioned that evidence recovered from previous encounters, including handwritten notes and field reports, suggests potential links with armed groups. These materials will be carefully examined and subjected to legal scrutiny to ensure that any action taken is based on verified facts and due process.
While these allegations await due process, Torres indicated that the Bureau of Immigration and other agencies will determine the proper legal actions against Pasion, including potential deportation or sanctions, in accordance with the law. "This operation highlights the continuing challenge posed by groups and networks that draw foreign nationals into activities that may place them in violation of Philippine laws. Foreign nationals who enter the Philippines are expected to respect and comply with the country's legal framework, including immigration rules and prohibitions against involvement in unlawful political or armed activities," he added.
Earlier reports noted that Pasion, affiliated with Migrante International, was last seen with fellow Fil-American Chantal Anicoche and NPA members in Mindoro in December 2025. Pasion remained with communist insurgents after clashes in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, last March 24 and 29, even though Anicoche was rescued in January after being abandoned during an earlier encounter with military units in Barangay Cabacao, Abra de Ilog.
Torres emphasized that this case highlights the broader issue of deceptive recruitment of foreign nationals through so-called 'exposure missions' or 'solidarity tours.' "NTF-ELCAC calls on overseas Filipino communities, international student organizations, and solidarity networks to remain vigilant against deceptive recruitment efforts. Well-meaning individuals must be protected from being drawn into activities that may compromise their safety or violate Philippine laws," he urged.
Torres concluded by affirming the NTF-ELCAC's commitment to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding Philippine sovereignty, and protecting both Filipinos and foreign nationals from exploitation by groups engaged in armed violence.
