CEBU, Philippines — With the support and respect the Philippines has shown to the People’s Republic of China amidst the tension over Taiwan, the Chinese government has pledged to continue giving support to the Filipinos.
Chinese Consul-General Jia Li told reporters in a press conference at the Chinese Consulate here that China is looking at setting aside P800 million either in cash or in kind to help in the recovery efforts from COVID-19 to typhoons and other disasters.
“China and the Philippines stand as one…Once Filipinos need any help, China will extend both hands to help,” said Li, through an interpreter.
This came after the Philippine government said it remains committed to adhering to the One-China policy amid looming tensions in the Taiwan Strait following the visit of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei recently.
“China holds high regard for the Philippines because it supported the one-China policy…This is one important step between both countries,” Li added.
Earlier though, Li also assured the Filipinos that the Chinese government will do a “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan and “will not use weapons or go to war” to settle the matter in response to all worries of families of OFWs in Taiwan. Li emphasized that they are not in conflict with Taiwan.
Li also said that Cebu will definitely also be included in the help that China will be extending to the Philippines.
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese government was the first one to send vaccines to the country including in Cebu. Aside from that, Cebu which has some sister-cities ties in China also got other assistance such as face masks, medical equipment and medicines.
During the Typhoon Odette, China also sent out tons of rice to Cebu and other affected areas in the country plus food packs aside from the cash assistance. — GMR (FREEMAN)