Attache worried over bad effects

An overreaction to the issue may bring another problem, which may strain the relationship between the Philippines and South Korea.

This was the pronouncement of Korean Consul and police attache Lee Yong Sang, who lamented that President Rodrigo Duterte’s claim about a mafia formed by their countrymen in Cebu may create prejudice.

“Since the president’s speech, some of the Filipinos have looked down on the visa of Korean nationals. I trust the police force and other security enforcement because they’re working under the president’s order. They couldn’t make any mistakes on their operations because it may lead to some Koreans being victimized. That’s the reason the Koreans living in Cebu were worried about the situation,” he said.

“The Consul General (Oh Song Yun) wants to relay this message to your society: Don’t make it snowballing. Duterte just wants to make the Koreans peaceful and happy here. But the overreaction may bring another problem. I’m worried that the overreaction may keep on going that will have bad effects,” he added.

The police attache yesterday met with Acting Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella to assure the latter that even without a mafia operating in Cebu, he will be more vigilant in tracking down erring Koreans.

“I’m glad that he came and assured that he’ll work closely with us to promote peace and order. He said he will see to it that Koreans continue to behave and comply with our existing laws,” Labella said.

He said the City will maximize its measures in ensuring safety and security, not only to its constituents, but also to foreigners.

There are more than 25,000 Koreans living in Cebu. Of the number, about 16,000 are students, while the rest are permanent residents. \