Hi JandM,
Thank you again for that very informative and motivating feedback. Before I send a registered mail containing my application for China PCC, I would like to call the Shanghai Public Security Bureau to confirm the steps and document needed (or to just ask if they do or do not issue PCC for foreigners like me who have been out of China and currently no valid foreign residence permit). I am yet to meet a registered Mandarin interpreter who will help me "do the talking" and then the intepreter can certify whatever result of that call and I will make it as part of my effort to apply for PCC.
However, I must use the right contact number of Shanghai Public Security Bureau. I plan to try first the number which came from the link that you gave, which is:
Division of Exit and Entry Administration of Shanghai Public Security Bureau
Address: No.1500 Minshenglu, Pudong New District, Shanghai
Tel: (+86) 21 28951900
If it does not work, I'll try the Telephone: 62310110 that is found at the footnote of the website of Shanghai Public Security Bureau:
http://www.police.sh.cn/shga/index.html
After I have the results sighted and signed by a JP, I will then send my application for PCC via a registered mail. I plan to make all of these to happen within this week.
Again, thank you for all the help and advice.