The Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) on Monday announced the winners of the 2026 Awards for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding, with the rites set on June 3 at the The Manila Hotel.
At the Pandesal Forum at Kamuning Bakery, APCU chair and president Raul Lambino said former First Lady Imelda Marcos was among past awardees.
This year’s awardees include Rommel Banlaoi, known for his scholarly work on international terrorism, South China Sea disputes, foreign affairs, and geopolitics. Lambino said only three individuals would receive awards from different categories.
The other awardees are businessman and philanthropist Peter Ng, former National Security Adviser Carlita Carlos, and Zhang Zhaodong, who will receive an honorary award for promoting rice propagation technology in the Philippines.
Lambino said there was no political affiliation involved in the selection process “as long as you promote Philippines-China understanding.” He added that talks are ongoing between China’s Ministry of Agriculture and the Philippine Department of Agriculture, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, on fisheries development and cooperation agreements.
