Philippines
Leaders honored at 6th Award for Promoting PH-China Understanding at The Manila Hotel
Leaders honored at 6th Award for Promoting PH-China Understanding at The Manila Hotel
The awarding ceremony, organized by the Association for Philippines-China Understanding Inc. (APCU) in partnership with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, gathered government officials, diplomats, and stakeholders to highlight people-to-people diplomacy and bilateral cooperation.
Among those recognized were a security expert known for advocating diplomacy to address disputes in the South China Sea, a community leader who has led long-running initiatives promoting intercultural unity, and a pioneer in hybrid rice technology whose work has helped improve agricultural productivity in the Philippines.
“Not coincidentally, the laureates are at the frontier of a new decade in Philippines-China ties,” Lambino said, noting their role in advancing peace, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Jing Quan, in his remarks, underscored the long-standing relationship between the two nations, noting that ties date back more than a thousand years.
“Since we established diplomatic ties 51 years ago, no matter how much the world has changed, our two peoples have always stood by each other and stayed close at heart,” he said.
He also expressed optimism for expanded cooperation in areas such as trade, clean energy, the digital economy, and agriculture, alongside stronger political dialogue and cultural exchanges.
APCU Vice Chairman and APPCU Committee Chairman Sixto Benedicto said the award continues to serve as a platform recognizing individuals who contribute to advancing bilateral relations across sectors, including public service, business, culture, and science.
“Through the years, the award has become a meaningful platform that highlights the invaluable contributions of visionaries, leaders, and advocates who have tirelessly fostered dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect,” Benedicto said.
Launched in 2021, the APPCU honors Filipinos and, in select cases, foreign nationals who have dedicated their work to strengthening friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and China.
The ceremony also featured the induction of new APCU officers and members, messages from Philippine government officials, and a representative speech from one of the awardees.
The event concluded with a dinner and entertainment program celebrating what organizers described as the enduring friendship and shared aspirations of the Filipino and Chinese peoples.
