Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso meets with Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa during a luncheon hosted by the Korean Embassy and Manila Koreatown Association on Tuesday, Sept. 9. (Photo from Manila PIO)
Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso gave assurance to the Korean Embassy in Manila that the safety and security of Korean nationals in the city are strictly observed and protected.
Domagoso made the statement on Tuesday, Sept. 9, following a luncheon hosted by Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-hwa and the Manila Koreatown Association.
During the event, the ambassador said the Korean community in the Philippines expressed their concern over their safety and security.
The mayor pledged stronger safety measures in Malate Koreatown, and assured officials of the Korean Embassy of a secure environment for Korean tourists, investors, and residents.
The ambassador added that he is eyeing to promote Malate tourism to Korean nationals, emphasizing that stability in the area is key to attracting more visitors and investments.
In response, Domagoso said he has instructed the Manila Police District (MPD), particularly the Malate Police Station, to intensify police visibility in the area to ensure peace and order.
"We assure you, the Korean embassy, of a safe and secure Malate Koreatown in Manila for Korean tourists, investors, businessmen, and citizens," Domagoso said, adding that the city government will prioritize improvements in street lighting in Malate as soon as possible to make Koreatown brighter, safer, and more welcoming for all who live, work, and visit there.
This earned praise from the ambassador who lauded the city government's open-door policy.