20 October 2026, Seoul – Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez met with officers of the Knights of Columbus - Republic of Korea Territory (ROK Territory) at the Philippine Embassy to discuss opportunities for cooperation in promoting the welfare of Filipinos living in Korea.

The Knights of Columbus delegation was led by Retired Major General Kyoung-soo Shin, Territorial Deputy of the Knights of Columbus in Korea; Grand Knight Man-sik Yang of 16000 Council; Knight Chan-woong Moon, Director for Membership and Programs; Knight Jin-young Lee, District Deputy; Knight Kwang-cheon Choi, District Deputy; Knight Yong-chun Park, Past District Deputy; Knight Jung-woo Kim; Director for Evangelization and Faith Formation; and Father Arvin Mosqueda, Chaplain of Hyewha-dong Catholic Church, Jongno District, Seoul.

The discussions covered the membership and activities of the Knights of Columbus in Korea, including the participation and number of Filipino members in the organization. The meeting also explored ways to strengthen cooperation among the Philippine Embassy, the Knights of Columbus, and the Catholic Church in supporting the needs of Filipinos in Korea.

Particular attention was given to the welfare, medical benefits, and healthcare of Filipino marriage migrants, workers, and students, as well as opportunities to enhance community outreach, pastoral support, and access to assistance for Filipinos navigating life in Korea.

The engagement underscored the importance of collaboration among Philippine government institutions, religious organizations, and community groups in responding to the needs of Filipinos overseas. Through closer coordination, the Embassy and its partners aim to explore initiatives that promote the well-being, inclusion, and protection of the Filipino community in the Republic of Korea.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Philippine Embassy and the Knights of Columbus to strengthening ties with the Filipino community and exploring meaningful avenues for service and cooperation with the Catholic Church in Korea. END