Manila: President Yoon Suk Yeol has officially requested the support of the Philippine government in the apprehension and prosecution of the main suspect involved in the 2016 murder of a South Korean businessman, his office disclosed. During a summit last week with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Yoon highlighted the ongoing concerns regarding the safety of Korean nationals in the Philippines and sought enhanced measures following the incident.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the discussions between Yoon and Marcos were centered on the unresolved case of Jee Ick-joo, who was abducted from his home in Angeles City and later killed by local police officers involved in a kidnapping scheme. The South Korean president expressed the urgency of bringing the main culprit, Rafael Dumlao, to justice. Dumlao, a former police officer, was sentenced to life without parole earlier this year but fled after his sentencing, with his current whereabouts unknown.
The meeting addressed the broader implications of t
he case on the safety of the 1.45 million Korean tourists who visit the Philippines annually. President Marcos responded by pledging to enhance protections for Korean citizens and to focus efforts on capturing Dumlao. The two leaders also discussed potential support for the families affected by the crime and other related matters, signaling a bilateral commitment to resolve the issue.
The 2016 crime involved significant misuse of authority by Philippine police, leading to widespread criticism and calls for justice from international and local observers. The case’s notoriety was heightened by the fact that two of Dumlao’s accomplices have already been convicted and are serving life sentences.
This diplomatic engagement underscores the ongoing efforts by South Korea to ensure the safety and justice for its citizens abroad, particularly in regions where they are a significant presence.