(UPDATE) CHINESE Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan on Tuesday called for the stabilization of China–Philippines relations, citing the need for more dialogue, deeper people-to-people exchanges, and expanded cooperation between the two countries.
Speaking at the Chinese New Year reception in Manila on Feb. 10, Jing underscored the long history of Chinese cultural traditions in the Philippines, noting that Chinese New Year celebrations have been observed in the country since the first Chinese settlement was established in 1594.
“This tradition has taken root and flourished on this land,” he said, adding that he is set to attend Spring Festival celebrations across the country in the coming weeks.
Jing, who has been in the Philippines for just two months, said his schedule has been demanding but productive, allowing his team to begin advancing bilateral initiatives.
He said a key concern guiding his work has been how to stabilize China–Philippines relations and ensure continued progress.
Meanwhile, Malacañang on Wednesday said that the government will not stop using diplomatic approach in addressing the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro issued the statement after the Chinese government barred 16 officials from the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) from entering mainland China and its territories of Hong Kong and Macau.
This is in response to the local government unit’s move to declare China’s envoy to Manila, Jing Quan, as persona non grata.
The Chinese Embassy also blasted the Senate for issuing Senate Resolution 256, calling for diplomatic measures in asserting the Philippines’ sovereignty and rights in addressing the territorial row.
“Even if they are hostile, we have a legal, diplomatic method that can resolve any issue,” Castro said in Filipino in a press briefing.
The official said that the Department of Foreign Affairs would be the main agency to deal with the matter.
“Again, the president is very clear on that issue. The president says that we will maintain a firm stance on our position with regard to our rights and interests over our own territory and over the West Philippine Sea,” Castro said.
