Angeles City, Pampanga — In a bid to strengthen international cooperation and enhance tourist safety, the Angeles City Police Station 4 officially launched its Korean Help Desk, a dedicated facility aimed at assisting Korean nationals and promoting safe, sustainable tourism. The launch ceremony was held with high-profile guests, including His Excellency Lee Sang-Hwa, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines.
The initiative reflects the growing Korean presence in Angeles City, both in terms of tourism and business investment. The help desk is expected to facilitate quicker responses to Korean tourists’ concerns, improve coordination with Korean stakeholders, and deepen the relationship between the city and the Korean community.
Also present at the launch were Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz, Executive Director of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC); Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr., Director of Police Regional Office 3 (PRO-3); and Choi Jong Pil, President of the Korean Association in Angeles City, who all expressed their support for the initiative.
Representing Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, Tourism Officer Louie Lazatin and Councilor Jeselle Dayrit attended the event and reiterated the city’s commitment to inclusive tourism and international cooperation. They emphasized that the establishment of the Korean Desk supports Angeles City’s goal of being a safe and welcoming destination for foreign visitors.
The desk will function as a tourism assistance center, providing help with travel-related inquiries, emergency support, and coordination with Korean businesses and tour operators. Positioned at a major police station, it will also play a role in monitoring tourist-heavy areas and ensuring rapid response to incidents involving Korean nationals.
By promoting responsible tourism and closer cultural ties, the project also aims to boost economic activity through tourism while maintaining a safe and secure environment. Angeles City has long been a preferred destination for Korean travelers, and this help desk institutionalizes support mechanisms tailored to their needs.
The Korean Help Desk marks another milestone in Angeles City’s proactive tourism and public safety agenda. With strong backing from both local and international leaders, the city continues to demonstrate its dedication to fostering harmony, protection, and hospitality for all who visit.
