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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Palace vows tougher action vs crimes targeting Koreans in PH

Palace vows tougher action vs crimes targeting Koreans in PH

Published May 17, 2025 03:53 pm

At A Glance

  • PAOCC suggested reviving the "Tourist Security Desk," a dedicated unit meant to ensure police visibility and coordination with local authorities.

Malacañang has assured the Korean community of stronger protection in the wake of rising violent crimes against Korean nationals residing in or visiting the Philippines.

           Flags of the Philippines and South Korea (Unsplash photos)

The Palace said this after the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), led by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, sat down with representatives from the Korean consulate and the United Korean Community Association on May 16 to discuss growing safety concerns.

In a statement on Saturday, May 17, Malacañang said local authorities are committed to addressing crimes in the country.

“The Philippine government authorities will remain steadfast in eradicating any acts of violence in the country,” Malacañang said, citing the Executive Secretary.

During the dialogue, Sang Seung-Man, Deputy Chief of Mission and Consul General of the Korean Embassy, appealed for “strong reinforcement” from Philippine authorities to address the “alarming violent crimes targeting Korean nationals.”

He also proposed intensified police cooperation and intelligence sharing to help in investigations.

In response, PAOCC Executive Director Gilberto Cruz presented a plan to bolster the security of Korean residents nationwide, which includes the revitalization of the “Tourist Security Desk”—a dedicated unit meant to ensure police visibility and coordination with local authorities.

An intensified monitoring of key localities such as Angeles City, Manila, and Cebu will also be initiated.

“These initiatives highlight PAOCC’s unwavering commitment and dedication to dismantling organized crime and suppressing criminality nationwide, reinforcing its pivotal role in upholding peace and order and public safety,” the Palace said.

The meeting came in the wake of multiple high-profile cases involving Korean nationals.

In April, a Korean tourist was shot and killed during a robbery in the Koreatown area of Angeles City.

Earlier this month, another Korean national was abducted near Nasugbu, Batangas, and rescued three days later in a police operation.

Related Tags

PAOCC Lucas Bersamin PH-South Korea
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