By Lee Kap-soo

The Philippine ambassador to Korea sent a letter to Yongin City. The letter is to thank Yongin City for providing accommodation and experience to Filipino members who participated in the 2023 Saemangeum World Scout Jamboree.

On Aug. 23, Yongin City announced that the city received a letter from the Philippine Ambassador to Korea Maria Theresa B. Dizon-De Vega saying, "The Philippine Embassy in Korea and the Philippine government thank you for your hospitality for the Philippine delegation who participated in the Saemangeum World Scout Jamboree."

In the letter, the Philippine ambassador said, "The rapid response of the Korean government and the cooperation of the private sector have made a successful jamboree," adding, "The Philippine scout members enjoyed great accommodation and alternative activities prepared by Yongin City."

She added, "We want to continue to cooperate closely with Yongin City and establish a special friendly relationship," adding, "We express our condolences to the Korean people who have been damaged by strong winds and heavy rains brought by Typhoon Kanun."

Earlier, Yongin City provided accommodation and alternative programs in cooperation with companies and universities for Jamboree members who withdrew early from Saemangeum due to typhoons from Aug. 8 to 12. The divided jamboree members visited Yongin Rural Theme Park, Gyeonggi Art Center, and Beopryunsa Temple for hands-on activities.

Yongin Mayor Lee Sang-il said, "I am happy to hear that the Philippine members have safely returned to their homeland," adding, "If the Philippine members keep their experiences in Yongin as precious memories, it will not be worth much more."

He then said, "I would like to express my gratitude once again to city officials, companies, universities, religious facilities, and city public institutions for devoted support activities for Jamboree members, including Filipino members."