THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), together with the Chinese embassy in Manila, has reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthen humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts through the ceremonial signing of handover certificates.
In his message, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized that the China has consistently supported the Philippines during disasters, particularly typhoons Uwan and Tino; as well as the 6.9 and 7.2 magnitude earthquakes that hit the provinces of Cebu and Davao, prompting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to declare a national state of calamity.
Following the declaration, Beijing extended a cash donation to the DSWD through the endorsement of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Gatchalian noted that the timely assistance provided by the Chinese embassy resulted in a more efficient delivery of social services and other forms of aid to disaster-affected families.
“We extend our deepest appreciation and sincere gratitude to the government of the People’s Republic of China for your generous donation of $1 million in support of the families affected by the recent typhoons Uwan and Tino. The support to Filipino people is made more feasible in partnership with other organizations, agencies, local government units, and assistance of generous nations,” Gatchalian said during the ceremonial handover of the cash donation from the government of China last Monday. Maricel V. Cruz
The fund was received through a bank deposit last December 29, 2025 which has been utilized to support the DSWD’s disaster response operations.
“This act of kindness reflects the true spirit of humanity and partnership between our nations. With partners like you, the DSWD is empowered to reach farther, respond faster, serve better, and help restore hope to communities striving for their recovery,” Gatchalian said.
Chinese ambassador Jing Quan acknowledged the gratitude expressed by Gatchalian and reiterated that China considers the Philippines a valued friend committed to mutual support.
“I hope this help reaches the affected people as soon as possible so they can get through the hard times, and go back to their normal lives. Philippines-China we’re neighbors, we’re friends. We should always respect each other, learn from each other, like each other, and help each other,” Quan said.
The ambassador highlighted that China has supported the Filipino people over the years not only through disaster relief assistance but also through livelihood and development initiatives.
The Chinese envoy also expressed optimism on fostering more positive engagements between the Philippines and China, emphasizing that people-to-people exchanges serve as the foundation of the natural relationship between the two nations.
During the event, Gatchalian presented to the Chinese embassy delegation the food and non-food items (FNFIs) distributed by the DSWD as initial relief assistance during disasters.
The DSWD chief demonstrated how the cash donation supported these efforts, and as part of the continuing partnership, he invited Quan to personally witness the packaging of FNFIs in the coming days.
