Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan visited the Binondo Filipino-Chinese community on Feb. 7, 2026 to deliver Spring Festival greetings and emphasize that China remains a “trusted friend” to the Philippines despite ongoing maritime disputes.
Accompanied by Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Victor Lim and executive vice president Jeffrey Ng, Jing toured the China–Philippine Friendship Bridge. The bridge was donated and constructed by the Chinese government as a symbol of bilateral cooperation.
During the visit, which included a stop to sample local delicacies at Eng Bee Tin, Jing addressed the cooling relations between the two nations.
He said that while the maritime dispute and issues related to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators have “seriously affected” ties, he remains optimistic about a recovery in tourism.
“China is forever a trusted friend to the Philippines even both sides have dispute in South China Sea,” Jing said.
The ambassador expressed a commitment to restoring travel figures to pre-pandemic levels. Prior to 2020, more than 300 flights operated between the two countries weekly, a number that has since dropped to 84. Annual visitor exchanges have also plummeted from over 3 million people to approximately 300,000.
Jing asked the Philippine government to address safety concerns and other issues affecting foreign visitors to ensure a secure environment for travelers.
He suggested that if these systemic problems and diplomatic frictions are resolved, the Philippines would likely see the return of millions of Chinese tourists.
