China’s 76th anniv celebrated

CEBU, Philippines — The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Cebu hosted a grand reception last Saturday evening, September 28, at NUSTAR Cebu to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

In her keynote message, consul general Zhang Zhen emphasized that the celebration was not only a moment of national pride for China but also an opportunity to reaffirm our bonds of friendship.

"This occasion is not only a moment of national pride for Chinese, but also an opportunity to reaffirm the bonds of friendship between our two sides," she said.

She thanked Cebuano leaders and communities for their long-standing support saying, “I especially felt the genuine desire across the local society for closer cooperation.”

Zhang highlighted China’s remarkable transformation over the past 76 years, lifting more than 800 million people out of poverty and emerging as a global leader in innovation, renewable energy, and international development.

Leadership in innovation was also highlighted, from hybrid rice to AI-driven smart cities, noting that China is the largest manufacturing hub and a leader in 5G, AI, and green energy, contributing 30% of global renewable energy capacity.

She also underscored China's contributions to global development, including investments in infrastructure across 152 countries through the Belt and Road Initiative and the provision of agricultural training and infrastructure to over 120 developing countries via the South-South Cooperation Fund.

China has also deployed over 40,000 peacekeepers and conducts humanitarian missions in piracy-prone waters, in addition to proposing the "Global Security Initiative" and "Global Governance Initiative" to foster a more peaceful global order.

She also cited China’s humanitarian support to the Visayas during times of calamity.

This year likewise marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines, which Zhang described as a significant milestone.

The occasion also commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's Resistance War Against Japanese Aggression and World War II, as well as the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's return to China and the founding of the United Nations.

She underscored Cebu’s pivotal role in enhancing bilateral ties saying, “I hope to see more Cebuanos and Visayans visiting China, and more Chinese visiting this region. I hope to see more people promoting sub-national cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.”

As Cebu is home to one of the largest Chinese communities in the Philippines, Zhang stressed that the real foundation of strong bilateral relations lies in cultural and social linkages.

“The true strength of any bilateral relationship lies in its people-to-people connections, the historical ties, shared interests, and common aspirations that bind us together,” she said.

Zhang called for stronger collaboration and mutual respect, noting: “I hope to see more people playing a positive role in getting bilateral relations back on the right track. May the enduring friendship between our peoples serve as a beacon of mutual respect, illuminating the path toward lasting peace and shared prosperity.”

The event was attended by Cebu’s Filipino-Chinese communities, business leaders, and government officials, including Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, League of Municipalities of the Philippines Cebu Chapter president and Cordova Mayor Cesar “Didoy” Suan, along with several other mayors from Cebu Province. (CEBU NEWS)