A 28-year-old Filipino green card holder was arrested last week by United States authorities in California for allegedly sending funds to suspected Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorists.
The US Department of Justice identified the man as Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, who is charged with “attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization,” a crime punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.
“Supporting a terrorist group, whether at home or abroad, poses a serious threat to our national security,” said Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli in a statement.
Records from a money transfer service showed Villanueva sent 12 payments totaling $1,615 over five months to two intermediaries who accessed the funds overseas, according to the US DOJ.
“We will aggressively pursue and prosecute anyone who aids or comforts our enemies,” Essayli stated.
ISIS, designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the US, has carried out deadly attacks in nearly 20 countries, including Afghanistan, France, and the United Kingdom.
Formed in 2014 as an offshoot of Al-Qaeda, ISIS seized control of large territories in Iraq and Syria. The Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila has not yet commented on Villanueva’s case.
Patrick Grandy, acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, stated that Villanueva allegedly “financially supported and pledged allegiance to a terror group that targets the United States and its global interests.”
Authorities said Villanueva communicated via social media with two individuals claiming to be ISIS fighters. During these exchanges, he expressed his desire to support ISIS and offered to send money to fund their terrorist activities, according to the US DOJ.
Villanueva reportedly told one of the self-identified ISIS fighters that he wished to join the extremist group, saying, “It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith. It’s the best way to reach heaven.”
He also stated: “Someday soon, I’ll be joining.”
Prosecutors revealed that the FBI found what appeared to be a bomb in Villanueva’s bedroom.
In a February 2025 message with one of the alleged ISIS fighters, Villanueva offered to send money and asked if it would “cover your equipment and weapons.” He discussed transferring the funds through an intermediary, the US DOJ said.
California
California, located on the west coast of the United States, is a diverse state known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural influence. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, it became a Spanish colony in the 18th century before joining the U.S. in 1850 as the 31st state, spurred by the Gold Rush. Today, it is a global hub for technology, entertainment, and innovation, home to landmarks like Hollywood, Silicon Valley, and Yosemite National Park.
United States
The United States, founded in 1776 after declaring independence from Britain, is a diverse nation built on immigration and democratic ideals. Known for its cultural influence, economic power, and landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Grand Canyon, it has played a major role in global history, from its Civil War to its 20th-century superpower status. Today, it remains a key player in politics, technology, and culture worldwide.
US Department of Justice
The **U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)** is a federal executive department established in 1870 to enforce federal laws, ensure public safety, and administer justice. Headed by the Attorney General, it oversees agencies like the FBI, DEA, and ATF, and plays a key role in legal matters, civil rights enforcement, and criminal prosecutions. The DOJ was created to centralize legal enforcement after the Civil War and has since expanded to address modern legal and security challenges.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan, located at the crossroads of Central and South Asia, has a rich history spanning over 5,000 years, shaped by empires like the Maurya, Kushan, and Ghaznavid. It is known for its diverse cultural heritage, including ancient sites such as the Buddhas of Bamiyan (destroyed in 2001) and the historic city of Herat. Despite decades of conflict, Afghanistan remains a land of resilient traditions, blending Persian, Turkic, and Pashtun influences.
France
France is a country in Western Europe renowned for its rich history, cultural influence, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. It was a major center of the Enlightenment, the French Revolution (1789), and artistic movements such as Impressionism. Today, France is a global leader in art, fashion, cuisine, and philosophy, blending deep historical traditions with modern innovation.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom (UK) is a sovereign country in Northwestern Europe, consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. With a rich history spanning centuries, it was once the heart of the vast British Empire and has played a major role in global politics, trade, and culture. The UK is known for its historic landmarks like Stonehenge, Buckingham Palace, and Edinburgh Castle, as well as its influential contributions to literature, science, and democracy.
Iraq
Iraq, located in the heart of ancient Mesopotamia, is often called the “Cradle of Civilization” for its role in early human development, including the invention of writing and the rise of empires like Sumer, Babylon, and Assyria. It is home to historic sites such as Babylon, the Ziggurat of Ur, and the Abbasid capital of Baghdad, though decades of conflict have damaged its cultural heritage. Today, Iraq remains a land of rich history, diverse cultures, and ongoing efforts to preserve and restore its ancient legacy.
Syria
Syria, located in the Middle East, is a country with a rich historical and cultural heritage, home to ancient civilizations such as the Phoenicians, Assyrians, and Romans. Notable sites include the ancient city of Palmyra, the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus (one of the oldest mosques in the world), and the Crusader-era Krak des Chevaliers. Decades of conflict have damaged many cultural treasures, but efforts continue to preserve Syria’s profound legacy.
