HB11299: AN ACT RECOGNIZING SINGAPORE SCHOOL CEBU AS AN EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION OF INTERNATIONAL CHARACTER, GRANTING CERTAIN PREROGATIVES CONDUCIVE TO ITS DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH
House Bill No. 11299 declares Singapore School Cebu as an educational institution of international character, allowing it to operate programs adhering to universally accepted educational policies. This recognition grants the school certain prerogatives, such as accepting students regardless of nationality (with a limit on single alien nationality), acquiring properties, determining its curriculum in consultation with the Secretary of Education, and setting its own fees. The bill also allows the school to employ foreign teaching and management personnel who are exempt from some local employment laws, with a proviso for income tax liability unless otherwise agreed bilaterally. The school is required to prioritize hiring locally qualified personnel.
The significance of this resolution lies in its potential to improve the standard of instruction and meet the special needs of the foreign temporary resident community for quality education in the Philippines. While promoting international friendship and understanding, the school is also mandated not to teach anything derogatory to the Philippines or its people. The Department of Education will supervise and regulate the school, ensuring adherence to basic laws and regulations governing international or foreign schools. This legislation aims to provide a recognized international educational option while still maintaining oversight and ensuring the school's operations align with national interests.