The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Philippines hosted a New Year media party on Jan. 20 at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel, bringing together more than 300 guests from the government, embassy, business community and media sector.
Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan delivered the keynote speech, emphasizing his commitment to safeguard China’s national interest while serving as the bridge strengthening China–Philippines relations amid existing challenges.
“As ambassador, I will firmly safeguard China’s national interests and dignity while serving as a bridge to ensure that China–Philippines relations move toward stability rather than deterioration, and that our two peoples become closer rather than farther apart,” he said.
Jing expressed gratitude to the media and stakeholders present, acknowledging the demanding nature of his role but remaining optimistic about the future.
He said that during his first month in office, he attended as many as seven events a day and met a wide range of Filipinos, including government officials, journalists, business leaders, students, workers and ordinary citizens.
“I have been deeply impressed by the hospitality and friendliness of the Filipino people,” he said.
Julie Ann Lope
Jing also cited recent developments in bilateral relations, including the implementation of a 14-day visa-free policy for Chinese citizens, which he described as positive news. At the same time, he acknowledged challenges such as maritime incidents and what he called “rumors demonizing China.”
Addressing maritime disputes in the South China Sea, the Ambassador noted that China has similar disputes with other neighboring countries, including India, Vietnam, and Japan, but emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy have helped manage tensions.
“I believe China and the Philippines also have the ability and wisdom to properly manage our differences,” he said.
“The best option is to sit down for talks and seek solutions in a diplomatic way.” Jing said.
He also said that diplomats from both countries are working toward completing a Code of Conduct by the end of the year, which he said would contribute to regional stability and the long-term development of China–Philippines relations.
The ambassador said the South China Sea issue is only one aspect of bilateral ties and urged both sides to view the relationship from a broader perspective.
Highlighting economic cooperation, he said China has been the Philippines’ largest trading partner and biggest source of imports over the past decade.
China also welcomes Philippine exports, particularly high-quality agricultural products such as durian, bananas, and mangoes.
He also pointed to the growing presence of Chinese brands and products in the Philippines, including BYD electric vehicles, Pop Mart and Labubu collectibles, Mixue, Miniso, Huawei, Vivo and Xiaomi.
He expressed hope that more Chinese technologies in solar power, green energy, environmental protection, and the digital economy would be adopted in the Philippines.
“The potential for China–Philippines cooperation is enormous,” he said, noting that Chinese investment in the Philippines over the past two years has surpassed that in other ASEAN countries.
He added that improvements in political relations would further boost trade and investment.
Concluding his remarks, the ambassador emphasized mutual respect and cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
“China and the Philippines are neighbors. We should learn from each other, help each other, and respect each other,” he said.
He also called on media professionals to uphold objectivity and fairness in reporting, recognizing their role in shaping public perception and bilateral relations, and encouraged them to visit and experience China firsthand.
