Malacañang on Saturday said 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 increasing number of violent crimes targeting Korean nationals living in or visiting the country.
During the dialogue, PAOCC Chairperson, Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin, was accompanied by Ambassador Marciano A. Paynor Jr. (Ret.), Undersecretary Jeffrey G. Gallardo, and PAOCC Executive Director Gilberto DC Cruz.
Deputy Chief of Mission and Consul General of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea Sand Seung-Man called for stronger support from Philippine government authorities to enhance the safety of the Korean community in response to the alarming rise in violent crimes targeting Korean nationals, both residents and visitors.
He proposed the establishment of an international police cooperation and intelligence-sharing framework to facilitate more effective investigations.
In response, Bersamin assured that Philippine government authorities would remain committed to eradicating all acts of violence in the country.
Cruz presented a plan to enhance the security and safety of Korean residents across the country.
One of the Philippine government's key proposals included revitalizing the "Tourist Security Desk," a specialized unit aimed at increasing police visibility and improving coordination with local authorities to ensure the protection of foreign nationals at all times.
Additionally, there will be intensified monitoring of key areas such as Angeles City, Manila, and Cebu.
The Palace 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.