Cagayan colleges, universities reject allegations on influx of Chinese students

April 19, 2024 , 07:12 PM

By Clarist Mae Zablan

(April 19, 2024) – Several universities and colleges in Cagayan on Thursday rejected allegations related to reports of an influx of Chinese students in the province, describing them as “baseless.”

In a joint statement, four higher education institutions (HEIs) in Cagayan—Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines, University of Cagayan Valley, University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao, and St. Paul University Philippines—denied the alleged selling of P2 million worth of college degrees to Chinese students in the province even without completing academic requirements.

“The enrollment of foreign students in Cagayan Province is a testament to the province’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and respect for human rights,” said the joint statement. “The insinuation that Cagayan universities are diploma mills is not only insulting but may also be libelous.”

The four HEIs stressed that they have been stringent in admitting students, in compliance with the rules of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

It also defended Chinese students in the province, noting that calling their presence as a national security concern is a “blatant display of racism and Sinophobia.”

“The enrollment of international students, including those from China, is a result of our commitment to academic excellence and global collaboration,” added the joint statement.

It also refuted the “grossly overstated” reports of media that there are 4,600 international students enrolled in the four HEIs. It clarified that only SPUP has foreign students, with 486 graduate students of various nationalities.

Last month, Cagayan Rep. Joseph Lara urged his colleagues to open an inquiry into the reported surge of Chinese students in the province.

CHED, meanwhile, on Friday assured that it is taking the matter seriously.

“The Commission reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that academic institutions under its purview operate within the bounds of Philippine laws and regulations and in concern with the nation’s interests,” said CHED in a statement.

(PM)

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