Philippines to deploy Korean-speaking police in response to crime wave
The Philippines is setting up tourist security desks staffed by Korean-speaking police officers after a spate of crimes targeting South Korean nationals in the country.
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The Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC) announced the measures on Tuesday, The Philippine Star newspaper reported.
It said that the desks would be placed in police stations located in areas with significant Korean populations.
Officers assigned to the desks will undergo basic Korean language training, with support from South Korean officials, according to online media outlet Brigada News.
PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz said the initiative aimed to improve interactions between law enforcement and Korean-speaking visitors and residents.
A Filipino policeman stands outside a police station in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Photo Reuters
Police patrols will also be increased in areas with a high concentration of South Koreans. Most South Korean nationals in the Philippines live in expat-friendly cities such as Manila, Angeles and Cebu, which are also popular tourist destinations.
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