CAGAYAN Rep. Joseph Lara is seeking an investigation into the alleged surge of Chinese students enrolling in colleges in their province, particularly in Tuguegarao City.

Lara filed the resolution on March 20, and it has yet to be adopted by the House plenary.

The solon described the increase in Chinese students as alarming, especially with the recent tension in the West Philippine Sea.

“With the prevailing situation in the West Philippine Sea, and in view of Cagayan’s strategic geographical location, the increasing number of Chinese students in the province poses serious concern to the national security of the Philippines,” Lara said.

He added that residents in Cagayan have been worried about the increasing number of Chinese students in the area.

“Based on persistent reports of concerned Cagayanons, the sudden influx of thousands of Chinese nationals in the province in the guise of students is very unusual and their activities are highly suspicious and alarming, causing worry and concern among local townsfolk,” he said.

The lawmaker further said that there are reports that the Cagayan provincial government and Tuguegarao City government sponsored the Chinese students.

He noted that these two local governments are supportive of China’s belt and road initiative that seeks to develop new trade routes, and they also oppose the Philippines’ Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the United States.