Today is the 47th anniversary of Philippine-China relations and the 21st commemoration of the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day. Both are celebrated on June 9. In 1975, it was also on this same day when the two nations established diplomatic relations; while in 2002, by virtue of Proclamation No. 148 signed by then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, it was declared that every June 9 is set aside as a day to honor the enduring friendship between two nationalities.

Even though it is only 47 years since formal diplomatic relations between Philippines and China commenced, history has revealed that relations between the two nations started long before the Spanish rule. Research and scientific findings all point toward healthy and regular trade and commercial transactions, which eventually encouraged some Chinese traders to permanently live among the early Filipinos. Chinese culture, therefore, is a part of our local heritage.

When former President Arroyo signed Proclamation No. 148, she also delivered a speech in front of the leaders and members of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCII). In it, she said that “there are many aspects of Philippine culture that evolved out of our relationship with China.” “The Chinese introduced the cast-iron plow head which made our lands productive; fruits and vegetables like petsay, kinstay, togue; and culinary arts that brought (to our tables) lomi, batsoy, tokwa, and pancit.”

Likewise, the impact of Chinese influence in Philippine life is seen and heard. There are terms that we use that have their roots in the Chinese language. There are also shared traditions with China that Filipinos continue to follow even in modern times.

Looking at the past and present members of the FFCCII, or other organizations where Chinese-Filipinos are present, it is hard not to notice, read, or even feel their presence. Among the top 10 richest in the country are Chinese-Filipinos, whose ancestral families can be traced back to Xiamen, a southern port city in China. It is not only in business, banking, or trade where Chinese-Filipinos can thrive and excel in, but also in other industries such as in education, technology, medicine, and even the arts, with some Chinoy artists making waves in movies, television, and on online platforms.

The present administration has cultivated warm ties with China. President Duterte, in various pronouncements, has stressed the deep and abiding ties between the two nations. The cooperation of the Philippines and China results in more trade, greater peace, and more prosperity to all.

It should also be noted that China has expressed its intent to continue the warm relationship with the incoming administration of President-Elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. In fact, one of the first to call Marcos was Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi expressed his desire to expand and exchange bilateral relations, and stressed that the two countries should write a “grand story” on the China-Philippines friendship in the new era.

No other nationality — save perhaps for the Spaniards and the Americans — has impacted almost all aspects of our lives. From language to food, from fashion to feng shui, from books to pop culture, the Chinese people have contributed something to the betterment of our society. Nowadays, it is impossible not to encounter any form of Chinese influence. It is also possible that we know someone with Chinese lineage.

With this, may the friendship between two nations bloom further, bloom brighter, and bloom for another 47 years!