As the government pushes measures to address economic and energy challenges, Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano said Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs can play a key role in strengthening cooperation between the Philippines and China to help each other face growing uncertainty.
Speaking during the 28th Philippine Independence Day and 25th Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day celebration on June 8, 2026, Cayetano highlighted the contributions of Filipino-Chinese business leaders and their potential role in fostering stronger ties between the two countries despite existing geopolitical challenges.
“You struggled with us, for us. Maybe we can do the same between the countries of the Philippines and China,” he said in his message during the event.
“With the economic crisis that is here and will get worse, who will help each other? Neighbors,” he added.
Cayetano said the experiences of Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs in overcoming challenges and building successful enterprises could serve as a model for cooperation between nations, particularly at a time when countries are navigating economic pressures and regional tensions.
The Senate President also pointed to the way business communities respond to difficult circumstances.
“One thing I noticed about Chinese-Filipinos and Chinese in general, when people see crisis, you see opportunity,” he said.
While acknowledging ongoing disputes between the two countries, Cayetano stressed the importance of maintaining areas of engagement and cooperation.
“We have real problems with China in the South China Sea. But we also have real projects of friendship,” he said.
The event gathered business, diplomatic, and government leaders in Manila to commemorate Philippine Independence Day and Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day. Among the guests of honor was First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, who joined attendees in celebrating the longstanding ties between Filipinos and the Chinese community.
Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan also delivered remarks during the gathering, which featured cultural performances showcasing Filipino and Chinese music and dance.
Cayetano said the Filipino-Chinese community continues to serve as a valuable link between the Philippines and China, expressing optimism that cooperation and shared achievements can help strengthen relations between the two countries.
“Through your achievements, I see [so] much hope. Mabuhay ang relationship ng ating mahal na bansang Pilipinas and China,” he said.