“The Philippines is a good friend to us. There are many Filipinos who have entered Thailand legally. Bangkok has many Filipino teachers teaching English. The matter that happened was only a small part of what was inappropriate and not a national issue. I believe that most Filipinos are good friends with us and do a lot of legal work. But if we are found to have broken the law, strict legal action must be taken as well. As for the situation of the Thai and Filipino quarrels last night, I would like to request that this matter be limited to just a group of people and not be drawn into a national problem. We should work together to see how we can use this matter as a lesson that will lead to a solution. The main authority of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is to maintain order, not to make loud noises, drink alcohol, or create a nuisance. But if it’s an immigration matter, it would have to be another agency to supervise Sukhumvit which is like an international road because there are all nationalities on that road. Ensuring safety for tourists is important. Bangkok must be more intensive in providing care through cooperation with relevant agencies.”

Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, discussed the quarrel situation on Sukhumvit Road last night while visiting the Sukhumvit Road area along with relevant agencies. The Governor of Bangkok also mentioned the current concern that drugs such as marijuana, which have been found in large quantities, may affect tourism. It must be carefully monitored so that it does not reach the youth. As for the problem of electronic cigarettes, which has now found its way into schools in Bangkok because they are easily available for purchase, many agencies must work together to take care of them. Ultimately, integration is important and the Prime Minister has ordered the establishment of a working group to discuss seamlessly with each other.