DepEd objects to foreign control of schools via Cha-cha, cites national security risk

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education on Monday drew the line at allowing foreign “entities” to own schools in the Philippines as proposed in two Charter change resolutions, saying that the entry of 100% foreign-operated schools in basic education will pose a threat to students’ sense of nationality and the country’s national security.

Speaking at the House of Representatives’ Monday hearing on Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 7, DepEd Undersecretary Omar Romero said that they “strongly oppose” changing the Constitution to lift foreign ownership restrictions in basic education due to its “far-reaching” consequences — including whether DepEd can regulate what’s taught inside fully-foreign schools at all.

“The most basic question is: Will it allow foreign entities to teach?” Romero said, reading DepEd’s position paper on Charter change.

“It is essential that the Philippine curriculum is exclusively implemented by Filipino citizens. This ensures alignment with the specific needs and context of the country,” he added.

The 1987 Constitution currently allows the establishment of international schools only if these are under religious groups and mission boards or if they will intentionally cater to foreign diplomatic personnel and their dependents, as well as foreign temporary residents. 

Both RBH 7 in the House and RBH 6 in the Senate seek to amend the fundamental law to allow foreign nationals to fully control and own schools in the country without limits through the insertion of the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law.” 

While Sen. Sonny Angara has vowed to retain the foreign ownership restrictions for basic education, which he said was a “societal goal,” it’s unclear whether pro-Cha-cha House leaders share the same position.

Romero said during the hearing that allowing foreign nationals to operate schools in the country may step on DepEd’s mandate of honing students’ “sense of nationality.”

Citing DepEd’s “Matatag” education agenda, Romero said DepEd aims to cultivate students’ sense of nationality through the Makabansa subject. The 1987 Constitution also requires educational institutions to “inculcate patriotism and nationalism,” Romero said.

“This