SENATE Committee on Basic Education Chairman Sherwin Gatchalian is set to file a resolution seeking a Senate inquiry on foreign students’ alleged payment of up to P2 million to get degrees in Cagayan.

Gatchalian earlier called on the Commission on Higher Education to investigate these reports.

Dr. Chester Cabalza, a University of the Philippines professor and founding president of the think tank International Development and Security Cooperation, cited stories from locals, including professors, when he reported the alleged payments for degrees.

On the other hand, CHED urged Cabalza to formalize his complaint with the necessary evidence before it initiates an investigation.

The Commission assured due process for all parties.

The senator added that he expects Cabalza to participate in the Senate inquiry and shed more light on the information he received, including reports that students are not attending classes.

Cabalza also raised concerns that degrees are turning to milking cows, a serious allegation according to CHED.

“Bagama’t sinusuportahan natin ang internationalization sa ating mga kolehiyo at pamantasan, pati na rin ang pagpasok ng mga mag-aaral mula sa ibang bansa, mahalagang protektahan natin ang integridad ng ating sistema ng edukasyon. Kailangang mabigyan natin ng linaw ang mga alegasyong may mga mag-aaral mula sa ibang bansa na nagbabayad para sa kanilang degree nang hindi pumapasok sa paaralan,” said Gatchalian.

“Kung lumabas sa mga imbestigasyon na may mga kolehiyo, pamantasan, at mga opisyal nilang sangkot sa mga pakanang ito, kailangan natin silang panagutin. Hindi natin dapat ibinebenta ang mga diploma mula sa ating mga kolehiyo at pamantasan,” the lawmaker added.

The CHED also assured that it will ensure academic institutions’ operations within the bounds of Philippine laws and regulations.