A roadmap is currently being crafted that would serve as a guide for the Philippines in becoming an education destination for foreign students.

The factors that make Malaysia and Singapore attractive destinations for international students are present in the Philippines. In addition to English instruction, living costs are low, qualifications are recognised, and quality faculties and facilities are present.

Current problems that prevent foreign students from enrolling include immigration rules (i.e. student visas are short-term visas that have to be extended) and highly bureaucratic processes (i.e. it takes months for the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Bureau of Immigration and the Department of Foreign Affairs to verify documents for visa application).

At present, foreign HEIs are unable to set up an operation in the country without a local partner. The Philippine Constitution limits foreign ownership to 40 per cent.

Sources: http://www.mb.com.ph/pcci-universities-to-promote-ph-as-global-education... and http://www.manilatimes.net/ph-eyed-as-a-1-b-global-education-hub/257273/

Commentary by Pierre Pecson, Programme Officer for Student, Alumni, and Higher Education Partnerships

The British Council’s initiatives on education in the Philippines include supporting CHED in internationalising higher education. We have committed support by bringing in the experience and models of the UK, with the goal of influencing national transnational education (TNE) framework and institutional-level policies in the country. A public hearing about the TNE collaboration on policies and guidelines is set to be held this year.

However, in easing the regulatory and legal restrictions, a leadership with clear internationalisation strategies for the education sector is needed. Amending policies will require tedious political and legal processes which will not come without opposition.

To shed light on the topic, the British Council published a 2015 report that provides an understanding into the Philippine higher education system and its readiness to engage internationally. It also gives an insight into international higher education institutions looking to engage with the Philippines. Another British Council report aimed for legislators tackles the creation of a favourable environment to incentivise collaboration with foreign higher education institutions (FHEIs) in the Philippines.

To request a copy of the reports and for further information, please contact Pierre Pecson at pierre.pecson@britishcouncil.org.ph