While there was a heightened tension between China and the Philippines’ navies and coast guards due to a maritime row in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the situation on land appears to be progressing for both countries.
Senior Colonel Li Jianzhong, People’s Republic of China defense attaché, rendered an introductory call to Lt. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., Philippine Army (PA) Commanding General, at the PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila on Thursday, June 2.
In a statement Friday, June 3, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, PA spokesperson, said the visit sought to “strengthen ties between the two armies.”
Trinidad said Li and Brawner discussed matters that are related to bilateral training and education.
“Sr. Col. Li conveyed his intention to link up with PA personnel who studied in China to invite them for an activity in line with the 47th anniversary of the establishment of the Philippine-China diplomatic relations,” Trinidad said.
The two officials also tackled the importance of strengthening diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines as they emphasized the importance of promoting peace and diplomacy as an effective channel in conflict resolution, the Army spokesperson added.
The Philippines and China’s militaries have consistently improved their relations and cooperation under the administration of President Duterte.
Back in January, China donated P1 billion worth of military equipment to the Philippines such as rifles, ammunition, rescue and relief items, drone systems, water purification vehicles, ambulances and engineering equipment among others.
Beijing also donated Covid-19 vaccines to the Philippine military in 2021 when the country could not get hold of any vaccine due to scarcity in global supply.
Towards the latter part of their meeting, Trinidad said Li invited Brawner to China for an official visit.