List Of Schools Allowing Foreign Students Sought

Surigao del Norte Representative Robert Ace Barbers has requested the Commissioner on Higher Education (CHED) to provide a list of schools permitted to accept foreign students, particularly Chinese nationals.

1,516 Chinese nationals were granted student visas (9F Visa) in Cagayan, with only 400 of them physically present at St. Paul University Philippines.

This inquiry stems from an impending House probe on the reported increase in Chinese students in Cagayan. Barbers emphasized the need to understand the specific courses offered by these schools, as well as the teaching methods and mediums of instruction used.

During a news forum at Dapo restaurant, Barbers highlighted concerns about the country becoming a destination for illegal drugs, referencing a recent seizure of nearly P10 billion worth of shabu.

He expressed the importance of knowing the geographic locations of these schools and whether they include specialized institutions like flying schools or maritime/nautical schools.

Additionally, Barbers questioned if foreign students were enrolled in peace and order or security-related courses.

Barbers also sought clarification from CHED and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) regarding their statements on the enrollment of Chinese students.

According to BI Chief Norman Tancingco and CHED Chief Prospero de Vera, 1,516 Chinese nationals were granted student visas (9F Visa) in Cagayan, with only 400 of them physically present at St. Paul University Philippines.

The remaining students were reportedly studying under a "Distance Learning" program.

Barbers expressed concern that Chinese students on "distance learning" programs with student visas may have the freedom to move around the country without physical attendance requirements.

He highlighted potential issues with enforcement if these students are caught or interrogated by local immigration and law enforcement agencies, as they could simply present their visas or student IDs.