Duterte issues apology over the killing of South Korean businessman

SARANGANI, Philippines - During his speech at a switch-on ceremony of a coal plant in Sarangani on Thursday, January 26, President Rodrigo Duterte took the opportunity to apologize for the abduction and killing of Jee Ick-joo, a South Korean businessman allegedly victimized by rogue cops.

Duterte apologizes killing of Jee Ick-joo
PHOTO CREDIT: ABS-CBN News
Speaking to several South Koreans, Duterte said: “I apologize for the death of your compatriot. We are very sorry that it had to happen, but I can assure you those responsible are known to us already and they will go to prison and I will see to it that they are sentenced to the maximum.”

Aside from issuing an apology, Duterte warned cops reportedly involved in the crime that they will suffer from their acts.

"Better if they escape [from] prison. T*** i** kayong mga pulis. Bantay kayo. Hindi ko kayo papalusutin. You will suffer,” Duterte said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP), the institution most vital to the government’s war on drugs, was shaken by the slay of Jee Ick-joo which apparently took place inside Camp Crame. The South Korean businessman was reportedly kidnapped in October 2016 under the guise of an anti-drug operation allegedly led by SPO3 Ricky Sta. Isabel of the PNP’s Anti-Illegal Drug Group.

Considered as one of the most corrupt institution in the Philippines, the PNP is now facing a long list controversies including the killing of Albuera, Leyte Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr.

South Korea accepts Duterte’s apology

South Korea’s envoy accepted the President’s apology but demanded for a quick and thorough investigation into the slay of Jee Ick-joo.

According to Ambassador Jae-Shin Kim, many of his compatriots were “upset” and may now be “reluctant” to come to the Philippines after the incident.

"Of course, the Korean people are very, very upset and we are embarrassed such a heinous crime is committed,” Jae-Shin Kim told reporters.

--Mini, The Summit Express



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