President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed optimism on the diplomatic relationship and friendship between the Philippines and China in a speech for Filipino-Chinese business leaders, diplomats, and politicians.
He gave these remarks Wednesday, June 8 during a joint event organized by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) in celebration of the 124th Philippine Independence Day and the 21st Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day.
“I would like to extend my warmest greetings to all our Chinese brothers and sisters as you hold this joint celebration of the 124th Philippine Independence Day and the 21st Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day. I would also like to congratulate the FFCCCII for the innovative efforts in putting together this virtual celebration event,” Marcos said.
“The centuries-old relationship and friendship of the Philippines and China has been and will continue to be of great mutual benefit to our people, from trade, arts, culture, athletics to regional peace and stability to the employment of opportunities for our people, and all the significantly generous efforts extended to us during the pandemic, the cooperative partnership of our donations continue to reach new heights,” the President-elect noted.
Incumbent President Duterte, Vice President-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio, former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Republic of the Philippines His Excellency Huang Xilian also spoke to members of the Filipino-Chinese community during the FFCCCII event.
“I join you in this celebration as we look forward to more years not only of diplomatic relations but of continuous, fruitful engagements between China and the Philippines as we continue to enjoy the friendship that we develop over the years,” Marcos concluded.