The Philippine Association for Chinese Studies (PACS) hosted a panel discussion on the “Prospects for Philippines-China Relations” last 23 November 2022 at the Angelo King Multi-Purpose Center of Xavier School. The discussion focused on the anticipated trajectories of Philippine-China Relations under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The newly designated Philippine Ambassador to China, Jaime FlorCruz, shared that good neighbourly relations with China must be the priority, which is possible through improving people-to-people communication and mutual understanding. He also expressed optimistic thoughts on Philippines-China bilateral relations—highlighting the growth between the two states’ cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, education, people-to-people exchanges, and the commitment of both Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Marcos to writing a new chapter on Philippines-China friendship. Ambassador-designate FlorCruz stressed that the Philippines should continue its engagement with China based on “friendly cooperation and mutual benefit” while guarding the Philippine “independence, sovereignty, and national dignity”.
Former Presidential Spokesperson and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ernesto Abella explained from the national security perspective that the Philippines is in a unique position in which both global and regional geopolitical issues find a flashpoint in the country. He added that China’s rise is the most significant strategic concern of the Asia-Pacific region—with the US and China’s power rivalries, China’s significant trade and investments, and aggressive territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea. With the Philippines in between two major powers, Mr Abella suggested keeping and maintaining an independent foreign policy. Developing the Philippines’ confident national identity, a long-term strategic engagement in areas of economic and people-to-people relations, and a sense of continuity from one administration to the next are needed for the Philippines to be able to leverage its “sweet spot”.
The President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Chairman of the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT), Mr George Barcelon, shared his insights about Philippines-China Relations during former President Duterte’s administration, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic. He pointed out the importance that both leaders put in relationships, especially the economic and cultural aspects. He encouraged Filipinos to learn Standard Mandarin or 普通话 (pǔtōnghuà) as an opportunity to prosper the local tourism industry, as the people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding are significant to Philippines-China relations.
PACS Board Member, Mr Lucio Pitlo III moderated the ensuing discussion with the speakers, focusing on various aspects of bilateral relations.
The discussion was followed by a question and answer session in which participants inquired about the speakers’ comments on the agenda of President Marcos’ state visit to China in January, the effect on Philippine-China Relations in regard to the recent visit of United States Vice President Kamala Harris in the Philippines, and continuation of the Build, Build, Build project due to the shift from Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.
The event drew 40 attendees on-site, and 134 attendees on the PACS Youtube channel. For information about upcoming webinars by PACS, please visit https://www.pacs.ph/ucpoming-events/.#
Report by Micha Reoyan and Shara Divinagracia
