Baguio City, Philippines―With their desire to make sure students are well and safe amidst the continuous battle of the country against COVID-19, Saint Louis University Baguio City sends 40 Thai exchanged students back to their homes.
SLU Baguio City has partner Universities and organizations as part of its internationalization. As usual the school would inform the different embassies of the presence of their nationals and maintains close contact with their partners.
In an interview with Dr. Mary Grace Carrido, Director of SLU External Relations Media Communications and Alumni Affairs (ERMCAA), she said handling the situation of foreign students during the Enhanced Community Quarantine was one of their priorities.
“In this case of Huwachiew Chalermprakiet University (HCU), through the office of ERMCAA we informed the Thai embassy of the presence of 40 Thai nationals in our school. Nakaonline classes po sila nung ECQ at nakatira po sila sa aming SLU Guest House for International students. Then, we asked for assistance for their repatriation as they are enrolled in 5 subjects as exchange-students for one semester in SLU,” she recalled.
It was April 21, 2020 then when the Royal Thai embassy ambassador came to SLU to bring relief goods.
The said school upon learning of the situation later discussed the students’ flight schedule on May 3, 2020 in cooperation with the Thai government and HCU, Thailand.
Unfortunately, the scheduled flight was cancelled then another flight was scheduled by the Thai embassy on May 13, 2020.
Travel was granted by the Mayor's office, VISAs renewed, medical clearances issued and obtained approval from the Mayor's Office for the travel pass (through hired van drivers).
As of now, the students are back safe serving their 14 day quarantine at a hotel in Bangkok, Thailand.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mary Grace Baywong expressed her gratitude to Mayor Benjamin Magalong and SLU President Rev Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM for their support throughout the process.
“Malaki naman support ng SLU admin especially to our president kasi kung ano suggestions ng office, supported kami ng admin. Also, we thank the Mayor's office for really assisting and approving the request of SLU for our students to travel back to Thailand,” she said.
Meanwhile, there were also 3 Chinese exchange-students studying doctoral degree who were sent back to their homeland.
The story was published in the top Thai newspaper featuring Philippine Thai embassy visit at SLU Baguio City.
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