Tourism secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has assured the South Korean community that the Philippine government is fully committed to the safety of tourists, especially its largest group of foreign visitors. In light of recent concerns, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is stepping up its efforts to protect travelers and maintain South Korea’s confidence in the Philippines as a prime destination.
“We take this matter with the utmost seriousness,” said Secretary Frasco. “Our government is working closely with South Korean officials and various local agencies to ensure that our visitors feel secure from the moment they arrive.”
South Korea remains the Philippines’ top source of international tourists, sending over 1.57 million visitors in 2024 and contributing approximately USD 2.3 billion to the economy. Recognizing the critical role tourism plays, the DOT is doubling down on initiatives to ensure every guest’s peace of mind.
In a meeting with Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Frasco proposed the creation of a National Task Force on Tourist Safety. The idea is to build a more centralized, proactive approach to crime prevention and emergency response. This effort was further highlighted during her meeting with the United Korean Community Association, Inc. (UKCA), where she reinforced a firm zero-tolerance policy against crimes involving tourists.
“Anyone who harms a tourist should face the full weight of the law,” she emphasized. “The damage goes far beyond the individual victim—it impacts our economy and the livelihoods of millions who depend on tourism.”
Maintaining strong diplomatic channels is also part of the strategy. The DOT continues to coordinate with South Korea’s Ambassador to the Philippines and keeps close ties with domestic agencies like the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units to ensure that safety protocols are aligned and effectively implemented nationwide.
Frasco also highlighted the DOT’s focus on increasing the visibility of trained law enforcement officers in tourist hubs. Through its TOPCOP (Tourism-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection) program, the DOT has trained over 8,600 police officers, alongside barangay tanods and intelligence networks in remote areas. The PNP now operates 30 dedicated Tourist Police Units, with 104 Tourist Police Assistance Centers and 1,243 Tourist Assistance Desks established throughout the country.
To better serve Korean tourists, the government is exploring additional measures, such as deploying Korean-speaking police officers and setting up more tourist assistance desks in key areas. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) is also aiding in these efforts to strengthen ground-level support.
Frasco urged host communities and police units to keep patrols visible, especially in locations popular with South Korean visitors. “We’re hopeful that the PNP will continue to add personnel in these areas to reassure our guests that their safety is a top priority.”
On the marketing front, the DOT continues to boost its presence in the South Korean market through a mix of traditional and digital campaigns. Efforts include a strengthened Tourist Assistance Call Center (151-TOUR), now staffed with Korean-speaking agents to help bridge any language gaps. Meanwhile, South Korean celebrity Seo In Guk remains the face of Philippine tourism in Korea, helping promote the country as a must-visit destination.
Further initiatives include collaborative campaigns with airlines and travel agencies, influencer tours later in the year, and ongoing promotions via the DOT’s dedicated showroom in Seoul and active social media outreach. Frasco also emphasized the importance of convenient travel connections, noting ongoing efforts to improve accessibility to destinations like Cebu, Clark, and Bohol.
The message from the DOT is clear: South Korean tourists are welcome, valued, and protected. Through continued collaboration, training, and promotion, the Philippines aims to remain a safe and unforgettable destination for its top visitors.
