The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) held a high-level dialogue with representatives from the Korean consulate and the United Korean Community Association in the Philippines to discuss the rising cases of violent crimes targeting Koreans, Malacañang said on Saturday.

PAOCC chairperson Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin was accompanied to the dialogue by Ambassador Marciano A. Paynor Jr. (ret.), Undersecretary Jeffrey G. Gallardo, and PAOCC Executive Director Gilberto DC Cruz.

Deputy Chief Mission and Consul General of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Sang Seung-Man, called for more substantial support from Filipino authorities to enhance the safety of the Korean community.

He proposed the establishment of an international police cooperation and intelligence-sharing agreement to facilitate investigations.

In response, Bersamin assured that the local authorities would remain committed to preventing all acts of violence.

Cruz presented a plan to enhance the security of Korean residents across the country.

One key proposal is to revitalize the Tourist Security Desk, a special unit with increased police visibility and improved coordination with local authorities to ensure foreign nationals are protected at all times.

Critical areas

Additionally, there will be intensified monitoring of key areas such as Manila, Angeles City and Cebu.

Malacañang said the initiatives underscore PAOCC’s steadfast commitment to dismantling organized crime and combating criminality nationwide, further solidifying its crucial role in maintaining peace, order and public safety.

Between April and May, two incidents of crimes committed against Korean nationals were recorded: a robbery in Koreatown in Angeles City, and an abduction near Nasugbu, Batangas. The victim was rescued three days later in a police operation.