China reissues warning to students planning to study in the Philippines

CHINA'S MINISTRY of Education has renewed its warning to Chinese students considering studying in the Philippines, citing what it described as a worsening security situation for its nationals in the country.

- By Adrian H. Halili

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the Chinese Embassy in Manila confirmed that the advisory was issued on Aug. 30. The ministry pointed to a recent increase in what it called “malicious incidents” involving Chinese students in the Philippines and warned of “deteriorating security” and “unfavorable conditions” for international learners, the embassy said.

This is the second time this year that Chinese authorities have issued such an advisory. A previous warning was released on July 18, similarly raising concerns about safety and treatment of Chinese nationals.

The embassy said the advisory was meant to remind Chinese citizens planning to study abroad to conduct risk assessments, strengthen awareness of safety precautions and plan their education arrangements carefully.

“The ministry cited a recent surge in malicious incidents targeting Chinese citizens in the Philippines, accompanied by deteriorating security and unfavorable conditions for international students,” it added.