A group of institutions in Cagayan’s Tuguegarao City, including the Medical Colleges of the Northern Philippines and Saint Paul University Philippines, said casting aspersions on foreign students was “deeply offensive”.
“It is a blatant display of racism and Sinophobia that has no place in our society, especially within the realm of education,” it said in a joint statement on Thursday.
The coalition said the enrolment of international students in Cagayan’s universities and colleges showed their commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
Activists slam Sino-US rivalry in Philippines’ maritime zone in South China Sea
Activists slam Sino-US rivalry in Philippines’ maritime zone in South China Sea
But the varsities rejected that claim, saying Saint Paul University Philippines has 486 foreign graduates while the rest have no overseas students.
“The unfounded accusation of our educational exchanges is yet another malicious sleight of hand to incite suspicion and hatred of China,” the diplomatic mission said, adding that academic cooperation between the two sides had been “growing fast” in recent years.
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Chinese floating barrier blocks entrance to Philippine ships at South China Sea flashpoint
Chinese floating barrier blocks entrance to Philippine ships at South China Sea flashpoint
According to the Philippines’ bureau of immigration, about 1,500 foreigners were granted student visas last year.
Beijing’s response triggered criticism from Philippine Senator Ronald dela Rosa, also a former police chief, who said it was “normal for us to doubt China” due to its “aggressive behaviour” in the contested waterway.
“We know what they’re doing in the West Philippine Sea. So who wouldn’t doubt if they’re not doing anything wrong there in the West Philippine Sea? Would we doubt their presence here?” he said.
How did 36 Chinese nationals join a Philippine Coast Guard auxiliary unit?
How did 36 Chinese nationals join a Philippine Coast Guard auxiliary unit?
The West Philippine Sea is the term Manila uses to describe the eastern parts of the South China Sea that are within its exclusive economic zone and territorial waters.
Dela Rosa also backed the lawmakers that sought an investigation into the presence of Chinese students in Cagayan, saying Beijing has “no right to dictate to Filipino politicians”, the Philippine Daily Inquirer reported.
The Southeast Asian nation has accused China’s coastguard and other boats of frequently blocking and water-cannoning its ships in the South China Sea.