Rising concerns over crimes targeting Korean nationals in the Philippines prompted a high-level meeting at Camp Crame on Thursday between Philippine law enforcement agencies and Korean officials.
The Korean Embassy has advised its citizens to limit outdoor activities amid increasing incidents of violence and theft.
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Executive Director Gilbert Cruz said they held a dialogue with the Korean Consulate and the United Korean Community Association to explore ways to enhance the safety of Korean residents and tourists.
“One purpose of the dialogue is to identify the crimes experienced by foreign nationals and where these usually occur. This crime mapping will help the police determine where to focus their presence,” Cruz said.
According to embassy data, there have been more than 200 criminal incidents involving Korean nationals this year. These include two homicide cases, three kidnappings for ransom, and eleven armed robberies.
"Their concern is that they are becoming victims of snatching, robbery hold-ups, and scams. That’s why they want immediate action from the police," Cruz said in Filipino.
A report published 21 April by Korean business newspaper Maeil cited data from South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stating that over the past five years, more than 3,000 Koreans have suffered from violent crimes such as murder and robbery in the Philippines.
Cruz said the PAOCC will serve as the central agency in preventing and responding to crimes involving foreign nationals. They will assess whether areas with large Korean communities require heightened police visibility.
He added that foreigners can now report crimes through designated police desks rather than going through their respective embassies.
Cruz said they are focusing on enhancing police presence in areas like Malate in Manila, Angeles in Pampanga, and Parañaque, where many Korean nationals reside.
Although data varies, the most common crimes identified through crime mapping include snatching, theft, killing, and scams.
In response to these persistent threats, the Philippine National Police is stepping up efforts to support foreign nationals, acknowledging that being an English-speaking country is no longer enough.
As part of its push to improve safety and accessibility, the PNP is considering training its officers in foreign languages to better respond to the concerns of non-Filipino residents and tourists.
Cruz said the initiative is part of a broader plan outlined in an executive order currently under review. The order aims to institutionalize protection measures for foreigners, including the expansion of tourist police services and the establishment of dedicated help desks in key areas with high foot traffic from foreign visitors.