Cebu Chinese Consulate General hosts 76th founding anniversary of People’s Republic of China

CEBU CITY -- The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Cebu marked the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China with a grand celebration on September 28 at NUSTAR led by Consul General Zhang Zhen with the 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 Suan, and several other mayors from Cebu Province.

“This occasion is not only a moment of pride for China but also an opportunity to reaffirm the bonds of friendship between our two sides. I thanked Cebu’s leaders and communities for their long-standing support. I especially felt the genuine desire across the local society for closer cooperation between our two sides,” Zhang said, in her anniversary remarks.

Zhang highlighted China’s transformation over the past 76 years, from lifting 800 million people out of poverty to becoming a global leader in innovation, renewable energy, and international development. She also recalled how Chinese aid has reached the Visayas during times of calamity, as she talked about China’s significant contributions to global peace and development through its Belt and Road Initiative and South-South Cooperation Fund.

“This celebration also marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines, and the importance of Cebu in in strengthening these ties.  I hope to see more Cebuanos and Visayans visiting China, more Chinese visiting this region. I hope to see more people promoting sub-national cooperation and people-to-people exchanges,” Zhang said.

Zhang added that the real foundation of bilateral relations lies in cultural and social ties and Cebu is home to one of the Philippines’ largest Chinese communities.  The true strength of any bilateral relationship lies in its people-to-people connections—the historical ties, shared interests, and common aspirations that bind them together.

The Consul General expressed optimism that Cebu continues to play a vital role in China-Philippines exchanges. “May the enduring friendship between our peoples serve as a beacon of mutual respect, illuminating the path toward lasting peace and shared prosperity,” she concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman/RMA News)