PNP, South Korea expand ties on modernization, public safety

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is expanding its cooperation with South Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to support ongoing modernization efforts and strengthen public safety programs.

In a statement on Friday, PNP Acting Chief P/Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he met with KOICA Vice President Lee Yun-Young in a courtesy visit at Camp Crame on 3 December, where they discussed capacity-building initiatives, technology support, and new areas of collaboration.

According to Nartatez, ongoing and planned programs with KOICA include training for police personnel, integration of modern policing technologies, and technical assistance aligned with international standards. 

KOICA also reiterated support for the PNP’s reform and modernization agenda.

The cooperation covers programs for the protection and assistance of Korean nationals and other foreign communities in the Philippines, strengthened coordination on crime prevention, measures to address transnational and cybercrime, and opportunities for PNP personnel to attend specialized courses and participate in exchange programs in South Korea.

Nartatez said these initiatives are intended to bolster the PNP’s operational capabilities and address emerging security challenges. 

He noted that KOICA’s involvement includes technical cooperation, capacity-building, and support for long-term institutional development.

He added that the PNP aims to expand the partnership to further enhance training, equip units with updated technology, and introduce new systems that support policing and public safety operations.

KOICA serves as the South Korean government’s main agency for grant aid and technical cooperation with developing countries.