Around 80 Siargao residents, including locals, migrants, and allies, protested at Sunset Bridge in Catangnan on September 14, carrying a banner that read “Siargao Against Occupation.” They condemned the Israelis’ ongoing genocide in Gaza, gradual occupation of their island, and plan to build a Chabad House there.

The Philippines-Palestine Friendship Association (PPFA) expressed support and tribute to the action and stand of the people of Siargao.

“We salute the historic action of Siargao residents who, despite intimidation and denial of local government permission, boldly marched in solidarity with Palestine and against settler-colonization in their own island,” the PPFA stated.

Residents said more and more Israelis have been taking “holidays” in Siargao in recent months. Data shows that the largest concentration of Israelis in the country can be found in the island. Many of them are Israeli Defense Force (IDF) soldiers from the war in Gaza. Locals and migrants in the island have often complained about the Israelis’ disrespect for the culture and people of Siargao.

They said that the Chabad House planned construction in Siargao seriously threatens the island’s culture and the lives of its people. Building this facility makes the island a coddler for war criminals while gradually displacing residents.

The occupation and oppression of the Palestinians also serve as a grim reminder of Siargao’s possible future if allowing the Israeli occupation of the island.

While the Chabad House is yet to be built, foreigners have been renting a house in Purok 1, General Luna, called the “Israeli House.” Residents have complained of its presence and the Israelis’ noise, garbage, and bad behavior.

Besides Siargao, Chabad Houses have already been established in Manila, Clark, Cebu, Boracay, and El Nido.

The Chabad House is a religious center for Israelis. Although it does not encourage conversion to Judaism, it promotes Noahidism, a religious movement targeting non-Jews.

Residents also launched a petition signing against the Chabad House construction and have so far gathered 3,550 signatures.