CFO and Philippine Embassy hold dialogue with Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) in Abu Dhabi
Following the courtesy call with Ambassador Alfonso Ver, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) met with representatives of Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi. The meeting was attended by school principals, members of the board of trustees, and administrators from The Philippine Global School (TPGS), The Philippine School (TP Abu Dhabi), Philippine Emirates Private School (PEPS), and the Universal Philippine School (UPS). It was held at the Sentro Rizal Room of the Embassy.
Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II welcomed the participants, thanked them for their presence, and expressed appreciation for their willingness to gather for a kamustahan and open discussion on issues affecting the PSO community. He emphasized that he wanted to hear their concerns directly. Ambassador Ver also joined and participated in the meeting.
Secretary Ang informed the group that the CFO had met with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) on 12 February 2026. He relayed ADEK’s strong support for PSOs and its encouragement to establish more Philippine schools in Abu Dhabi. Ambassador Ver reiterated that PSOs must remain competitive and prioritize the welfare and well-being of their students.
Secretary Ang also shared that the CFO has already initiated several programs for PSOs and continues to develop more initiatives to support them. A major concern raised by all schools was the proliferation of online schooling. Representatives explained that this issue had long been brought to the attention of the Department of Education (DepEd), and have been waiting for concrete actions to be taken. They noted that non-accredited online schools offering the Philippine curriculum—without DepEd permits or recognition—continue to operate freely. They also noted that such institutions operate under UAE permits categorized as training centers, institutes, or caregiving facilities, allowing them to function despite not being recognized as schools. Many of these online providers are affiliated with institutions in the Philippines, leading parents to believe they are legitimate. In response, Secretary Ang encouraged the PSOs to submit documents and evidence regarding these online schools so the CFO can take initial steps to help mitigate the situation.
Ambassador Ver reiterated his call for PSOs to remain united and to work toward regaining the trust of parents. Ms. Rowena V. Jubinal reminded the schools to course all submissions—such as applications and renewals of permits, school reports, requests for special orders, and updated school information sheets—through the CFO, as stipulated in the Manual of Policies, Standards, and Regulations for PSOs.
Secretary Ang assured the schools that he will act on the issues raised and will relay their concerns to DepEd. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting PSOs and ensuring the protection and welfare of Filipino children abroad. He also thanked the participants once again and announced that an online kamustahan for PSOs will be held this March.
