Despite maritime tensions, the Philippines and China are still tight, celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations this June. Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz says the two countries are pushing past sea squabbles to focus on trade, tourism, and TikTok-worthy cultural exchanges.
China is still Manila’s #1 trade BFF, with a whopping $42.21 billion in total trade for 2024. Big PH brands like Jollibee, SM, and San Miguel are strutting their stuff in China, proving Pinoy biz is booming abroad.
FlorCruz wants to see more Filipino products on Chinese shelves and more Chinese tourists hitting our beaches. He’s also eyeing big deals in green tech, agriculture, and electric vehicles, pitching the Philippines as Asia’s next innovation hotspot.
To mark the golden anniversary, both countries are pulling out all the stops—online series, glitzy events, and even a lights and sounds show at Jones Bridge in Manila with no less than PBBM and First Lady Liza expected to attend. | via Allan Ortega | Photo Courtesy of DFA/Philippine Embassy in China
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