Bacolod City (19 August) -- The number of Negrenses marrying foreign nationals are rising in number according to Commission of Filipino Overseas Counselor Ivy Miravalles.

Data released by the CFO showed that a total of 2,615 persons were recorded to have married foreign nationals since 1993 to 2004.

Topping the list is Bacolod City with 1,292 Negrenses marrying a foreigner, followed by San Carlos City 129, Silay City 121, Sagay City 96, Talisay City 94 and Cadiz City 83.

In a press conference held recently at the Philippine Information Agency Office, Miravalles cautioned Negrenses who have plans of marrying foreigners to use all means to fully know their boyfriends or girlfriends well before marrying them.

She said not all Pinays who married a foreigner and lived abroad, lived comfortably as some ended up being battered partners, if not, exploited in other ways.

Couples who know each other only through internet, telephones, or mail should exhaust ways to know more about their partners to assure them of a good future when they eventually live together for good.

Miravalles revealed that among the issues the CFO and other allied agencies are focusing on are illegal activities through migration by marriage, deception, marriage through bureau introduction, marriage for a fee and misrepresentation.

Pinoys who have participated in the modes mentioned may end in tragedy in a foreign land.