Photo credit: CPIO

Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba has vehemently denied claims that universities in the province as "diploma mills."

The Governor condemned these allegations as unjust, particularly expressing concern over reports suggesting that diplomas were being issued to students without proper attendance, sometimes in exchange for large sums of money.

Mamba underscored the role of educational institutions in Cagayan.

"Our institutions, especially our schools, are a source of pride for us. Our investment is primarily in the education of our children. Every Cagayano's aspiration is to ensure quality education for their children, regardless of the challenges. This commitment has fostered a thriving educational environment here in Cagayan," he said.

Expressing apprehension, Governor Mamba voiced concerns about the potential repercussions of baseless accusations, particularly those suggesting that Chinese nationals were falsely representing themselves as students in the province.

He cautioned against hasty actions that could lead to adverse outcomes, such as the expulsion of Filipino residents from Hong Kong or Macau in retaliation.

"The ramifications could be significant. Fabricated cases, like the alleged presence of diploma mills, are inherently unfair. If unfounded expulsions of Chinese nationals occur, it may result in the expulsion of Filipinos from Hong Kong and Macau. This could disrupt vital exchanges, considering they are our primary trading partners. Therefore, we must proceed with caution," the Governor added.