MANILA — Crimes against Korean nationals are a cause of concern for the Korean Embassy, which has cautioned its nationals in the Philippines to limit outdoor activities.   

Top officials of Philippine National Police, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, and Department of Tourism met with embassy officials at Camp Crame on Thursday to address security concerns.

According to embassy data, there have been more 200 criminal incidents involving Korean nationals this year—these include two homicide cases, three kidnappings for ransom, and eleven armed robberies. 

DOT: Agencies working to ensure safety of Koreans, other tourists

PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz said security concerns have already led to a “huge decrease" — around 18 percent — in tourists from South Korea.

"Ang concern po nila ay nagiging biktima sila ng snatching, nagiging biktima sila ng robbery hold-up, at nagiging biktima ng scam. Kaya ang gusto nila ay agad na aksyon mula sa pulis," he said.

(Their concern is that their nationals are victims of snatching, robberies, and scams. So they want quick action by the police)

Cops to learn Korean language to curb crime vs foreigners

Taguig police have already increased security and added more checkpoints in the BGC commercial district after two Korean nationals were robbed on May 17.  

Suspects have also been identified and charged, police said.

The PNP committed to strengthening protective measures for Korean nationals and other foreigners.

These include expanding tourist police services and training officers in foreign languages to better assist non-Filipino complainants.