Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Influx of Koreans in my country Philippines

I've read this article from the abs-cbn TV website. And since I am residing in South Korea, I have been particularly interested in things about Korea in relation to Philippines. So, to all my Korean and Filipino friends, enjoy reading.


Over 29,000 Korean students now in RP
By EDU PUNAY

The Philippine StarThere is an influx of Korean visitors in the country, and they are coming not only as tourists but as students.Immigration Commissioner Marcelino Libanan reported Tuesday that over 29,000 Korean citizens were issued special study permits (SSP) and student visas (SP).He said these Koreans make up 95 percent of the total foreign student population in various private schools and learning centers in the country.Records from the Immigration Student Desk showed that most Korean students in the Philippines are enrolled in schools in Metro Manila, Baguio and Cebu. There are 10,000 more applications for SSP and SP pending with the bureau.Libanan said he would push for new guidelines that would expedite processing and issuance of study permits and visas. A special study permit is issued to aliens taking elementary, high school or non-degree courses, while a study visa is given to those pursuing college degrees here.The immigration chief said he would meet with officials of the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education to discuss programs that would boost the country’s reputation as “haven for foreign students.”The bureau recently extended the length of visa extension given to SSP holders, from one month to six months. Libanan, however, stressed that they would also deal with foreign nationals who are studying in the country without necessary permits. He said they would be sanctioned for violating the country’s immigration laws.He warned school registrars against admitting foreign students who do not have an SSP or SP: “They should cooperate with us and abide by the rules or else their authority to accept foreign students would be withdrawn.”

Sunday, July 1, 2007

interracial marriages

Why do many women, especially Filipinas, marry foreigners? Is it because they are tired of the difficult life in a third-world country like the Philippines and would want to experience a more abundant and pleasant life? Is it because they want to marry a rich man who can provide all their needs? Is it because they want to have goodlooking kids with blue eyes, blond hair, and fair skin? Is it because they want to go to another country, especially in the US or in Europe, and be able to experience autumn and winter seasons? Is it because they just want to get money out of the men, even if it meant marriage to some really old, dying, but wealthy individuals?Is it because they wanted to have green cards and it's the easiest thing to do or what we commonly refer to as "marriage for convenience"? Or is it really because of the word "LOVE"?
Different people have different reasons for marrying a foreigner. It's not unheard of that many women do it just for the sake of money. Will it give you peace of mind? Are you sure you will never be unhappy? Is money everything needed to be happy? Have you heard of rich people who are often anxious, depress, had gone crazy, or even commit suicide? Is love not important at all? I am quiet saddened because many foreigners think most, if not all, Filipinas are hookers or just after the money. I hate that perception. It reflects a bad image to us Filipinas and for the country as well. We may be poor but we should at least have that dignity with us if we want foreigners to respect us.
Anyway, there are good women also who marry because they really fell in love with these guys and nothing else. This is what I want Filipinas who wanted to marry men of another race to emulate. Marriage with a foreigner is not a piece of cake. It require love, patience, and understanding to hold on. In one way or another personalities would really clash no matter how hard you try to understand one another. But if the foundation is based on love and friendship, nothing should go the wrong way.
Marriage is a sacred thing. For me, it's a lifelong commitment. I don't believe in divorce. My argument is that, you made a vow to be together in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, in times of happiness and in times of sorrow. Why bend that vow? Couples should take it seriously. Get to know your partner better before hooking up. Be honest to the guy if you want the guy to be honest to you. I do believe in "karma". What you do to others will eventually bounce back to you.
I am writing this to convey a message to Filipinas like me. It's time to change most foreigner's perception about us. We are crying so much for women empowerment, right? So, why not work our way to achieve what we want rather than expect men to give it to us?
Hope you get my message...
April 18, 2007