PH, S. Korea talk police cooperation in bid to fight violence vs Koreans

Representatives of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Manila and the United Korean Community Association in the Philippines meet to discuss efforts to combat violence against Koreans in the Philippines on Friday, May 16, 2025. (Photo from the Presidential Communications Office)

MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the South Korean embassy met last Friday to discuss police cooperation in a bid to combat violence against Koreans in the Philippines.

Executive Secretary and PAOCC Chair Lucas Bersamin as well as PAOCC Executive Director Gilberto Cruz were present at the meeting, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement on Saturday.

Consul-General of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Manila Sang Seung-man and representatives of the United Korean Community Association in the Philippines attended the discussion.

“[Sang] appealed for strong reinforcement from the Philippine government authorities in enhancing the safety of the Korean communities in addressing the alarming violent crimes targeting Korean nationals, both residents and visitors alike,” the PCO said.

“Sang suggested international police cooperation and intelligence gathering framework, which will pave the way for an effective investigation,” it added.

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Cruz proposed “revitalizing” tourist security desks to intensify police visibility and make coordination easiest with local authorities to protect foreigners.

“An intensified monitoring of key localities such as in Angeles City, Manila, and Cebu will also be initiated,” the PCO said. /jpv