Manila, Philippines — The Philippines is now eyeing to apply a whole government approach in ensuring tighter security for South Korean tourists.
This is what the Department of Tourism will prioritize, aiming to protect South Koreans and all foreign tourists from being victims of crimes and violence while in the country.
In their part, DOT is now coordinating with various government agencies in order to secure tighter strategies that will safeguard South Koreans, in particular, against any crime or violence.
This comes after the recent incidents of robbery, scamming, and killings from which South Koreans commonly fell as victims.
DOT noted that they have asked the Philippine National Police to task additional police personnel and police visibility in destinations South Koreans frequent.
As of now, they have trained over 8,000 police officers on the basic principles of tourist safety, which they have also expanded among barangay personnel.
Likewise, the Presidential anti-Organized Crime Commission has also pledged to work hand-in-hand with DOT and other agencies regarding the matter.
PAOCC said that they will be designating police assistance desks so that tourists can easily and quickly report crime and violent incidents they experienced.
PAOCC is also looking into providing tighter security measures in Malate, Manila, Angeles, Pampanga, and Parañaque, frequented by South Korean nationals.
It added that an executive order is underway aimed at the protection of tourists in the country.
Following the recent crimes targeting South Koreans, a decline in tourist arrivals was recorded, with over 396,000 Korean arrivals during the first quarter of 2025, compared to the over 458,000 in the same period in 2024.
The Philippine government also expressed hope for the retained confidence of the South Korean government and tourists to visit the country.