‘Stronger, closer Philippines-China ties to continue’

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines will continue its “stronger” and “closer” relations with China under President Xi Jinping, President Marcos said yesterday as he congratulated the Chinese leader for securing his third term.

Marcos congratulated Xi for the successful conduct of the 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, at the groundbreaking of the China-funded Samal Island-Davao City bridge project in Davao City that was also attended by Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian.

“We look forward to building upon the directions that your President – that President Xi Jinping has given to the People’s Republic of China in partnership with the Philippines. We look forward to continuing to strengthen and to bring closer our two countries,” Marcos said in a speech.

Estimated total cost of the four-lane 3.98 kilometers long Davao-Samal bridge project is expected to reach P23.4 billion.

Expected to be completed in 2027, the project will be funded through a loan from China worth P18.67 billion.

“This is not the only project that we have depended upon, the concessional loans and even grants from the government of the People’s Republic of China, and it is clear to see the benefits that those projects bring to our people, to our economy, and to the Philippines,” the President said.

Marcos said the Davao-Samal bridge is a testament to the “strong and ever-growing foundation” of the bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries.

“It is always a pleasure as a nation to join hands with you for the eventual success of this endeavor,” he said.

Marcos called China the Philippines’ “dependable partner,” specifically in its infrastructure projects, which he said have greatly benefited the Filipino people.

For his part, Huang said the bridge project reflects China’s commitment to the Marcos administration’s Build Better More program and marks a significant milestone of bilateral cooperation.

China will provide a concessional loan of $350 million for the construction of the bridge, which aims to facilitate local residents’ travel, promote the development of Samal island, and enhance the sustainable development of Davao city and surrounding regions.

Huang said China is ready to work with the Philippines to strengthen ties as “close neighbors, good relatives and friendly partners,” as well as further their cooperation in agriculture, infrastructure, energy and people-to-people exchange, to bring more tangible benefits to the countries’ peoples.