CHINA promised to provide at least P3.8 billion in economic and infrastructure assistance as a result of President Rodrigo Duterte’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Boao Forum in Hainan province, a Palace spokesman said Thursday.
Apart from the P3.8-billion economic and infrastructure assistance that was provided by China through various signed agreements by the countries’ line agencies, nine Chinese companies also signed letters of intent to explore business opportunities in the Philippines, with an estimated investment value of $9.5 billion, said Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque.
Roque said that all projects discussed during the meeting were aimed at benefiting the Filipino people.
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said the Chinese government had expressed its commitment to help with the infrastructure development of the country’s broadcasting system.
“It is a very good indication that China is very committed to helping our government media in the Philippines in improving its services,” Andanar said.
He cited Xi’s remarks on the importance of media exchange not just between the Philippines and China, but also among other Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states.
Andanar also said China would continue to provide scholarships to media members of the Philippine government for the next four years.
Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, meanwhile, assured the safety of the Xi during his forthcoming visit to the country in November, saying that the Philippines has become much safer under the Duterte administration.
“We have assured the Chinese of not only great hospitality, warm welcome, but also of the necessary security preparations,” Cayetano said.
Roque said the number of Chinese visitors in the Philippines almost doubled in number since President Duterte assumed office, which indicates that the country is seen as a safer place to visit.