Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon!

It is a great pleasure to join you today at the 5th Awarding Ceremony of the Awards for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU) and the Chinese Cultural Courier @ the Philippines(CCCP). On behalf of the Chinese Embassy, I extend my warmest greetings to all our distinguished guests and heartfelt congratulations to this year’s awardees.

I would also like to offer my sincere congratulations to Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis on her recent appointment as Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

My deepest appreciation goes to the Association for Philippines-China Understanding, all organizing partners, in particular the Chinese National Academy of Arts, for your unwavering support and dedication in making this meaningful event possible.

China and the Philippines enjoy a millennium-old friendship. In the spirit of this enduring relationship, we have launched a series of initiatives that serve as platforms for mutual understanding and friendship between our two nations and two peoples. These programs have been warmly welcomed and actively supported by the public.

As we mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines, it is especially meaningful that two of our flagship initiatives—APPCU and CCCP—are being held back to back today. This not only reflects the shared aspirations of our peoples but also highlights the enduring vitality and internal strength driving China-Philippines relations forward.

Since its inception five years ago, APPCU has become a hallmark of China-Philippines friendship. Over the years, its laureates—ranging from political leaders and business figures to media practitioners and academics—have actively contributed to advancing the traditional ties and deepening mutual trust between our two countries.

This year’s awardees include not only prominent figures, but also ordinary law enforcement officers and educators, whose deep commitment to bilateral relations is reflected in their selfless dedication and everyday service. Their stories are a powerful reminder that the strength of our friendship lies in the tangible efforts of individuals from all walks of life.

Their contributions stand as a testament to the fact that the China-Philippines relationship is rooted in the people. Regardless of their professions, the awardees are both witnesses to and trailblazers of our enduring friendship. They have used their unique strengths to help ease misunderstandings, foster dialogue, and promote mutual understanding.

Through sharing genuine stories about China, they have reached out to the Filipino public with sincerity and goodwill. Their longstanding commitment to deepening exchanges and cooperation continues to strengthen the bond between our two peoples.

Launched in 2022, CCCP has quickly become a flagship program aimed at deepening mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and people-to-people affinity between our two nations. Under its banner, 13 remarkable themed events have been held, showcasing the rich and diverse cultures in different parts of China.

This evening, we are delighted to witness Chinese performers take center stage, offering a vibrant introduction to Chinese folk chamber music. Set against an evocative backdrop of “mountains and seas,” the performance will be enriched by elements of contemporary dance, Chinese painting, calligraphy, and even demonstrations of artificial intelligence.

Confucius once said, “At fifty, I came to understand the Mandate of Heaven.” As we mark the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic ties, history has shown—despite challenges from time to time—our two peoples have remained steadfast in their commitment to peace, prosperity, and cooperation, and joined by a shared aspiration for a better future.

History offers valuable perspective. China and the Philippines are neighbors whose connection cannot be undone. Good neighborliness and friendship serve the fundamental interests of both peoples. It is my sincere hope that people of vision from all walks of life will come together to draw wisdom from our shared history, choose the right path, and bring our bilateral relations back to a course of healthy, sound, and steady growth.

In conclusion, I wish the event a complete success, and all our guests an enjoyable evening.

Thank you.