49th anniversary of RP-China diplomatic relations, 23rd Fil Chinese Friendship Day remembered

Speakers at the activity honoring the 49^th anniversary of Philippines and China diplomatic relations and the 23^rd Filipino and Chinese Friendship Day called for continued cooperation and mutual respect between the two countries.

“It is truly an honor to have all of you here today as we celebrate the strong, enduring bond between the Filipino and Chinese community, said Felix Guanzon, Board Director of the Association for Philippines-China Understanding Inc. (CEBU).

Guanzon delivered the welcome remarks at the activity held on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at the Cebu Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce Social Hall.

“It is a day to honor the contribution of the Filipino-Chinese community to our society and to recognize the rich cultural heritage that both serve. Let us commit ourselves to building bridges of cooperation and mutual respect and working together toward a brighter future for our communities,” he added. “Let us celebrate this friendship day with joy, unity, and friendship.”

Consul-General Zhang Zhen of the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Cebu explained that the event commemorates the 49^th anniversary of the opening of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

“It was such longing for friendship that enabled the signing of the joint communique (signed by Chairman Mao Zedong and then President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.) on the establishment of the diplomatic ties between our two countries,” Consul-General Zhang recalled.

“Since then, the joint communique has served as an overarching framework, guiding our relations through thick and thin. It underscores that the difference between us; between the economic, political, and social systems of the two countries should not constitute an obstacle to peaceful coexistence and friendly relations, in accordance with the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” she said.

“My dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, given the current situation of our bilateral relationship, it is extremely important to promote mutual understanding and take our destiny into our own hands. We need to forge a closer bond between our peoples and open our hearts to each other,” Consul-General Zhang stressed.

Cebu Vice Governor Hilario Davide III recalled that Filipino and Chinese communities share history and cultural bonds, and ‘the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that has flourished over nearly five decades.’

“As we mark 49 years since the Philippines and China established four diplomatic relations, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment,” Vice Governor Davide said.

He expressed the need for commitment to deepen further and broaden the cooperation between the two countries across all fields.

“Obstacles may arise along the way. Nevertheless, we must continue to prioritize dialogue,

cooperation and mutual respect by focusing on the common ground that unites us,

rather than the differences that divide us,” he added.

In his message read by Cebu City Councilor Jaypee Labella, Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia recalled the long-standing relationship between China and Cebu, with the establishment of the first Chinese settlement in Parian district.

“In Cebu, the mark of the Chinese is everywhere, with the Cebu Chinese community (that is) credited for the transformation of the once modest village into the vibrant Queen City of the South,” Garcia pointed out.

“As we celebrate this special day, let us honor an enduring friendship between China and the Philippines, and reaffirm our commitment to strengthen the bonds of cooperation, understanding, and mutual respect,” he said.

Ms. Ami Li, one of the organizers of the activity, said this was the second year that a group of nine Chinese schools in Cebu spearheaded the commemoration of the Philippines Chinese Friendship Day.

Ms. Li said the activity aims to celebrate Filipino Chinese Friendship Day through the music and art culture of the two countries. The Cebu nine Chinese schools, together with Lahug Elementary School, made preparations for the event within one month. This was the second year that the group held this event. She added that the group is also considering the observance of the Filipino and Chinese Friendship Day next year.

The event also included the awarding of the winners of the 4^th Chinese Language Competition. Bethany Christian School won first prize in both the elementary and high school categories, followed by Cebu Cherish School in second place and Childlink Learning Center and High School in third place.

The nine Chinese schools also presented Filipino and Chinese songs and dances while a school the Childlink Learning Center Rondalla played two pieces of music. The Lahug Elementary School teachers entertained the audience with a medley of old favorite songs.