In a bid to strengthen the bond between the Philippines and China, Vice President Sara Duterte is contemplating avenues to enhance cooperation specifically in education and youth development. Speaking on the occasion of the 74th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, Duterte revealed her keenness to bolster relations with China as both nations strive to advance their collaboration in multiple domains.
During her video message, recorded while she was in South Korea, Duterte stated, “May we continue to pursue avenues and opportunities that will result in mutually beneficial outcomes for our peoples.” She expressed confidence in China’s continued growth and progress in the coming years and hoped that the partnership between the Philippines and China would flourish. Duterte identified agriculture, trade, investment, science and technology, and people-to-people interactions as areas where she desires to see further advancements—a vision President Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping had earlier agreed to pursue.
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, also emphasized the key importance of the current state of relations between the two countries. Despite the ongoing dispute in the South China Sea, Huang stressed that this should not define the overall Philippines-China relationship. He called for any misunderstandings to be resolved through friendly consultations and managed properly. Huang further urged both nations to stay on the right track and remain unaffected by any provocative incidents, emphasizing the need for stronger cooperation that would benefit both peoples and contribute to regional peace and stability.
With Vice President Duterte’s aspiration to bolster educational and youth development ties and Ambassador Huang’s support for increased collaboration, it is evident that both countries recognize the strategic significance of working together towards a shared future. As the partnership between the Philippines and China evolves, it is expected to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and cultural understanding between the two nations.
