Philippines Probes Influx of 4,600 Chinese Students in Cagayan, Concerns Over 'Degree for Sale' Scheme

Apr 19, 2024, 05:20 AM

The Philippines is set to investigate the significant influx of Chinese students in Cagayan, a province near Taiwan, amid concerns over the legality of their stay and potential security risks. The military has expressed worries, particularly as 4,600 Chinese nationals are reported to be residing in the province. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has been urged to look into allegations of a 'degree for sale' scheme in the area. Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva voiced concerns that this could be a cover for illegal activities, such as operations by Chinese workers in unauthorized online gaming businesses. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian opposed practices that might allow the proliferation of diploma mills. CHED chairman Prospero de Vera noted that a 'significant number' of these students are enrolled at Saint Paul University Philippines in Tuguegarao City, although the institution has not faced complaints regarding its acceptance of foreign students and has denied allegations related to the issue. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration revealed that 1,516 Chinese nationals were granted student visas in 2023, a move attributed by Immigration Chief Norman Tansingco to a 'post-pandemic rebound' and efforts to boost educational tourism.