QUEZON CITY (PIA) -- The Republic of Korea (ROK) Ambassador to the Philippines, Lee Sang-hwa, paid a courtesy visit to Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr., the Presidential Peace Adviser, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on August 11, 2023.

Ambassador Lee emphasized the strong bond between the Philippines and South Korea, forged during the Korean War when Filipino soldiers joined the United Nations Command in defending ROK's sovereignty.

Expressing gratitude to the Philippine government for its unwavering support, Ambassador Lee also mentioned the upcoming 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2024. He also conveyed the Korean President's interest in participating in the celebration.

Recognizing the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU)'s peacebuilding efforts, Ambassador Lee commended their work, acknowledging that improved peace and security conditions, especially in Mindanao, would create more trade and investment opportunities. Ambassador Lee shared his plans to visit various areas in the country, particularly in Mindanao, at the suggestion of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio. He stressed the importance of combining peace-building efforts with socio-economic assistance and expressed his desire to witness the situation on the ground.

Sec. Galvez expressed gratitude for South Korea's support during Typhoon Yolanda, as their contingents had extended its stay in the country to help more victims. In addition, he thanked the ambassador for the South Korean’s assistance in the fight against COVID-19, who donated half a million vaccine doses.

During the meeting, Sec. Galvez provided updates on the comprehensive peace process in the Philippines, particularly the peace process with the Bangsamoro and the KAPATIRAN. 

The courtesy visit was attended by officials from the OPAPRU and representatives from the ROK Embassy, including First Secretary Kim Boram and Defense Attaché Lt. Col. Kim Jaisuk. (OPAPPRU / PIA-NCR)