Centuries of connection led to formalized diplomatic ties in the Philippine China friendship

Neil Gregori Garen
11 minutes ago
3 min read

How does a relationship that spans more than a thousand years evolve into a modern partnership between nations? What does 50 years of formal diplomacy mean when it’s built on centuries of cultural exchange and shared history?

In June 1975, under the leadership of President Ferdinand E. Marcos and Premier Zhou Enlai, and with the guidance of Chairman Mao Zedong, the Philippines and China officially established diplomatic relations. However, the ties between the two nations reach much further back—through ancient trade routes, shared traditions, and deep people-to-people connections.

As both countries mark 50 years of formal diplomacy, a series of meaningful events have taken place to celebrate this milestone: a photo exhibition on Filipino-Chinese friendship at Bahay Tsinoy in Intramuros on May 30, the 2025 Awards for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU) held at the Manila Hotel on June 3, and the Jones Bridge lighting ceremony led by President Marcos Jr. on June 6. With the active presence and support of Ambassador Huang Xilian and the Chinese Embassy in Manila, these moments reflect how far the partnership has come and the values that continue to drive it forward.

These moments remind us of how far the partnership has come and the values that continue to drive it forward—find out why these five key highlights still matter in understanding the evolving Philippine China friendship.

Celebrating everyday trailblazers of friendship

Programs like the Awards for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU) highlight individuals—educators, law enforcers, artists, and scholars—who have helped foster understanding, resolve tensions, and build long-term trust between the two countries. Their stories show that diplomacy isn't only forged in boardrooms; it's also built in classrooms, communities, and cross-cultural friendships. As Ambassador Huang Xilian emphasized, “The strength of our friendship lies in the tangible efforts of individuals from all walks of life, whose selfless dedication deepens mutual understanding and cooperation.”

A diplomatic bond rooted in ancient friendship

While 1975 marked the official start of diplomatic ties, Filipino and Chinese communities had been connected for centuries—through maritime trade, intermarriage, and cultural exchange. These deep-rooted connections helped smooth the path for formal diplomacy and underscore the enduring familiarity between the two peoples, which extends far beyond any political agreement. As President Marcos Jr. said during the Jones Bridge lighting to mark the golden anniversary, this relationship “continues to be a bridge of understanding and cooperation between our two nations.”

A land of opportunities and shared prosperity

Over the years, the Philippines has become home to many individuals of Chinese descent who found success in business and industry. Welcomed and supported by Filipino communities, these individuals became part of the country’s economic fabric, contributing to local development and job creation while also serving as bridges between Chinese and Filipino cultures. Symbolized by the Jones Bridge, which connects historic Intramuros to Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, this event highlights longstanding people-to-people ties that remain a shining beacon of friendship built on mutual respect and cooperation.

Investing in cultural understanding

Cultural initiatives, such as Chinese language programs, student exchanges, and joint university partnerships, have flourished since diplomatic ties were established. These efforts go both ways—helping Filipinos better understand Chinese heritage, and giving Chinese visitors and students firsthand exposure to Filipino values, hospitality, and creativity. Programs like the Chinese Cultural Courier @ the Philippines (CCCP) are just one of many platforms deepening these people-to-people exchanges.

Embracing future cooperation in Philippine China friendship

The 50th anniversary events not only highlight the rich cultural heritage shared by the Philippines and China, fostering deeper mutual appreciation, but also emphasize forward-looking initiatives focused on innovation and sustainable development, signaling a shared vision for continued growth and partnership.

Younger generations should recognize the long-standing friendship that began centuries ago and continues to shape our shared future. These celebrations serve as a reminder that the deeper our cultural ties and mutual understanding, the stronger our path forward becomes.