DFA Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs, Ms. Jasmine B. Lee Discuss Protection of Nationals, and Promotion of Multiculturalism and Democratic Values

21 September 2023 – Undersecretary Jesus “Gary” S. Domingo met Korean Ms. Jasmine B. Lee, former Member of the National Assembly of Republic of Korea (ROK), and current Member of the Presidential Committee on National Cohesion (PCNC).

The two held extensive discussions on the challenges of overseas Filipino workers, history of Philippine-Korean cooperation, multiculturalism in societies, and current issues facing democracy, among others. Undersecretary Domingo and Ms. Lee agreed to work together on projects to further Philippine-Korean relations. One of the projects discussed aims to look into the improvement of the departure orientation system with the goal of better integration for overseas Filipino workers, and their families in Korea.

Undersecretary Domingo underscored the role of both countries as pillars of democracy in the region. The Philippines, known as the oldest republic in Asia, supports ROK in its initiatives in supporting and promoting democracy, particularly through its leadership of the global “Summit for Democracy.” Both acknowledged that the threats on democratic institutions and values continue to rise, and agreed to undertake projects aimed at supporting democracy regionally and globally. The two will also collaborate on an inter-parliamentary empowerment of elected Filipino public officials worldwide.

The two also agreed to look into the promotion of multiculturalism and diplomacy among the Filipino and Korean youth through collaboration with the Diplomatic League (D-League), the DFA’s global youth volunteer, and young professional engagement platform. Both agreed that it is essential to foster public understanding, especially among the youth, of democratic values and multiculturalism for a peaceful and prosperous society. Moreover, in creating this common understanding builds support for foreign policy that promotes democratic values abroad.

Ms. Lee is the first Filipina and naturalized ROK citizen to have become a member of the Korean National Legislature, elected in 2012. She is a veteran journalist, and was appointed to the PCNC in recognition of her leadership in promoting multiculturalism and diversity in Korean society.

The meeting was made possible by the Philippine Embassy in Seoul, ROK under the leadership of Ambassador Ma. Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega. END