BI looks into Norwegian’s walkout, cursing in Iloilo

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August 17, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is looking into reports about a Norwegian businessman who walked out of a public consultation after residents expressed opposition to a planned P20.3-billion artificial intelligence (AI) data center, and cursing members of the local media in Oton, Iloilo. 

“Yes, we saw that (report). We are looking into the details of this concern,” BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said.

Daniel Stefan Robertsen was called to the consultation on Friday by the Oton town council to shed light on the project on a 10-hectare property in Barangay Abilay Sur.

Residents opposed the project after Robertsen allegedly gave unclear answers, prompting the latter to walk out.

When approached for an interview, Robertsen was caught saying: “If you don’t have a brain, just f**k, go away.” 

Cabinet Secretary Benhus Abalos condemned the act.

“His behavior is deplorable. You should not curse at or disrespect Filipinos, especially in our own country. As a foreigner, he is expected to respect our people and our laws,” Abalos said.