The Philippines and South Korea have agreed to enhance security coordination to protect Korean nationals residing in or visiting the country, Malacañang announced Saturday. The move follows a high-level dialogue between the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and representatives from the Korean consulate and Korean community.
The meeting focused on rising crimes targeting Korean nationals, with PAOCC Executive Director Gilberto Cruz outlining the government’s plan to improve safety measures. These include revitalizing the Tourist Security Desk to increase police visibility and coordination with local authorities.
Key areas such as Angeles City, Manila, and Cebu will see intensified monitoring, the Palace said, as part of the government’s broader efforts to curb organized crime and uphold public safety.
South Korean Deputy Chief of Mission Sang Seung-Man recommended stronger international police cooperation and intelligence-sharing mechanisms, as well as firm support from Philippine law enforcement.
The renewed security push comes in the wake of a fatal shooting of a Korean national in Angeles City on April 20, reportedly linked to a robbery. The local Korean community has offered a P200,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspects.