Palace Pledges Enhanced Protection for Korean Nationals
Malacañang has assured the Korean community of stronger protection amid rising violent crimes targeting Korean nationals in the Philippines. The Philippine government is committed to addressing these safety concerns with urgency and dedication.
This assurance came after a meeting on May 16 between the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), headed by the Executive Secretary, and representatives from the Korean consulate as well as the United Korean Community Association. The discussions focused on the increase of violent crimes affecting Koreans residing in or visiting the country.
In a statement issued the following day, Malacañang emphasized that local authorities will persist in their efforts to eradicate violent acts. “The Philippine government authorities will remain steadfast in eradicating any acts of violence in the country,” the statement quoted from the Executive Secretary.
Collaborative Efforts to Strengthen Safety Measures
During the dialogue, the Korean Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission and Consul General highlighted the urgent need for “strong reinforcement” from Philippine authorities to address the alarming rise in violent crimes targeting Korean nationals. He also suggested enhanced police cooperation and intelligence sharing to improve investigation outcomes.
Responding to these concerns, the PAOCC Executive Director outlined a comprehensive plan to improve security for Korean residents nationwide. Central to this plan is the revitalization of the “Tourist Security Desk,” a specialized unit designed to increase police presence and coordination with local law enforcement.
Additionally, the government will intensify monitoring efforts in high-risk areas such as Angeles City, Manila, and Cebu. These initiatives demonstrate PAOCC’s unwavering commitment to dismantling organized crime and maintaining peace and public safety across the country.
Recent Incidents Highlight Urgent Need for Action
The meeting was prompted by several recent high-profile cases involving Korean nationals. In April, a Korean tourist was fatally shot during a robbery in Angeles City’s Koreatown. More recently, a Korean national was abducted near Nasugbu, Batangas, but was successfully rescued after a three-day police operation.
Community leaders and local experts stress that these incidents underscore the urgency of implementing stronger security measures. The government’s proactive stance aims to restore confidence among Korean residents and visitors by ensuring their safety and well-being.
For more news and updates on crimes targeting Koreans in the Philippines, visit Filipinokami.com.