By Michael Wong Ho
The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Federation of Filipino- Chinese Associations of the Philippines co-hosted a grand evening gala themed “Fifty Years of Diplomatic Relations, Everlasting Friendship” at the SMX Convention Center on June 8, 2025.
More than 1,500 representatives from the Filipino Chinese community participated in the event.
Among the distinguished guests were Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian, Senate President Francis Escudero, FFCCCII president Victor Lim and Federation of Filipino- Chinese Associations of the Philippines chairman Zhao Qiping.
Ambassador Huang emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between the Philippines and China, noting that the two countries are separated only by a narrow body of water and share longstanding familial and cultural connections.
He highlighted the contributions of the Filipino-Chinese community, who, for centuries, crossed seas and mountains to settle in the Philippines.
Those individuals became deeply rooted in the country, playing a vital role in its struggle for independence and actively contributing to national development through their hard work, wisdom, and dedication, which made them an essential part of the Philippines’ diverse society.
He also reflected on the historic decision made fifty years ago by the leaders of both nations to establish formal diplomatic relations.
Despite facing challenges over the decades, the bilateral relationship has continued to progress.
Ambassador Huang attributed the enduring friendship to the strong foundation built on people-to-people connections and shared values, which provide confidence in the continued growth of cooperation between the two nations.
In his speech, Lim reflected on the deep historical connections between the Philippines and China, tracing their ties back more than 600 years.
He cited the visit of the Sulu king to China as an early symbol of goodwill between the two nations—a story that remains well known to this day.
Over the centuries, many people from the coastal regions of southeastern China settled in the Philippines and lived in harmony with the local population, contributing to the country’s cultural and social fabric.
Lim highlighted several prominent historical figures who embodied the shared heritage of the two nations.
Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal had ancestral roots in Jinjiang, Fujian province.
General Ye Fei, a prominent figure in modern Chinese history, was born in Quezon Province.
Likewise, General Jose Ignacio Paua, a key leader in the Philippine struggle against Spanish colonial rule, hailed from Nan’an City, also in Fujian.
He said the 50th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations presents a valuable opportunity for both countries to strengthen their friendship, deepen cooperation, and work together to build a more prosperous future.
