Despite territorial conflicts between the Philippines and China, Vice President Sara Duterte is hopeful that both countries will enjoy “closer” bilateral ties based on “mutual trust and mutual respect.”
During her Chinese New Year video message to the Chinese Embassy in Manila’s celebration on Monday, Jan. 16, the official took note of what the New Year and the recent state visit of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. meant for the countries’ relationship.
“With the President’s successful and substantive state visit to China earlier this month, I look forward to having closer bilateral ties between the Philippines and China grounded not only in our long and colorful history but also based on mutual trust and mutual respect,” she said.
While the New Year might mean differently to people, she is assured that it “marks a fresh start and rejuvenation for many of us.”
“For some, this presents an opportunity for growth and advancement leaping forward to new and more exciting stages in their lives,” Duterte said.
“For others, like myself, the New Year represents a moment of reflection on our past actions and a chance to remind ourselves of our tasks ahead,” she added.
This year, the Chinese New Year will fall on Sunday, Jan. 22, as determined by the Chinese lunar calendar.
In her video message, the Vice President extended her “heartfelt congratulations and best wishes on this auspicious season of the Chinese new year and join the entire country in celebrating this event with our Chinese-Filipino siblings and Chinese friends.”
Duterte congratulated Chinese Ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian for leading the embassy’s Lunar New Year celebration.
“May this New Year herald a prosperous and fruitful future for us all,” she said.