President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed his commitment to strengthening the bond between the Philippines and China, emphasizing the need to focus on shared goals and common purposes rather than innate differences.
Speaking at the Manila Hotel during the Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU) ceremony, President Marcos stated that his government is working towards a more comprehensive and strategic relationship.
He stressed the importance of constant dialogue, an amicable approach to decision-making, and the resolution of issues.
He highlighted the upcoming celebration of the 48th anniversary of formal Philippines-China relations and acknowledged China's significant role as the country's top trade partner.
“It is my firm belief that our relationship must not be defined by our innate differences. We may have such differences; all friends do. But we recognize in the Philippines the commitment of President Xi and the People’s Republic of China to overcome such difficulties and I can assure our good Ambassador here that that commitment also is present in the Philippines’ efforts to bring us closer together — the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China. So let us be bound rather by our similarities, our common purpose, our shared goals,” said Marcos.
Marcos also praised the Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) for organizing the event and recognized former Presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Rodrigo Roa Duterte for their contributions to the nation's development.
The APPCU, a joint initiative between APCU and the Chinese Embassy, aims to honor individuals who have strengthened friendly ties and promoted mutual understanding in various fields such as media, public service, trade, commerce, arts, culture, and sciences.
Launched on January 16, 2021, APPCU strives to foster friendship and people-to-people exchanges between China and the Philippines, considering it crucial for sound state-to-state relations.
The award categories include Hall of Fame, Outstanding Contributions, and Major Contributions.
