The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By DIEGO C. CAGAHASTIAN
The troubles that beset the Philippine economy, particularly the business community, mainly emanating from the embarrassing billion-peso flood control projects scandal, were momentarily set aside by Chinese-Filipino businessmen at an important event.
The occasion was the welcoming function in honor of His Excellency, Ambassador Jing Quan, held at the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industries Inc. (FFCCCII).
Ambassador Jing is the new head of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to the Philippines, replacing the well-liked Huang Xilian.
Last December 10, Jing paid a courtesy call on Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines Maria Theresa Lazaro. Jing presented an open copy of credentials to the Philippine Assistant Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Director-General of Protocol Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda on December 9 after arriving in Manila on December 6.
The businessmen, led by industrialist Victor Lim, president of FFCCCII, were enthusiastic and happy to welcome Jing to Manila, discussing trade issues between China and the Philippines.
Victor Lim said his group’s hosting of a meeting with the new Chinese envoy is a big step in enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries in line with directives from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to bridge international partnerships.
During the dialogue, the businessmen highlighted the state of Philippine export and tourism sectors ahead of the 2025 ASEAN Summit.
It should be noted that the FFCCCII is slated to host the 2026 ASEAN Chinese Business Leaders Summit in Manila in October, alongside the 2026 ASEAN Summit to be hosted by the country.
Next year will be the turn of the Philippines to be chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Members of the federation also engaged in “balanced and mutually beneficial exchanges” on the active promotion of Philippine products in major Chinese forums, boosting the Philippines as a premier tourist spot for Chinese travelers, and empowering Philippine enterprises.
“The business federation’s engagement reflects a broader consensus on sustaining positive momentum in the multifaceted Philippines-China relationship. This drive for stronger regional economic integration carries greater urgency than ever, as global protectionist trends underscore the critical need for robust trade and business ties within ASEAN and with China,” read the FFCCCII statement.
Jing Quan, a career diplomat in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, has just started his tour of duty in the Philippines, and it is fitting that members of the business community are among the first groups to give him a warm welcome.
His previous assignment was as Deputy Chief of Mission in the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States.
From 2018 to 2021, Jing was designated as Deputy Director-General in the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs.
Jing hails from Hancheng, Shaanxi Province in China. He is married with one daughter.
In his response, the ambassador said he will “firmly safeguard national interests and dignity, while also playing a bridging role to stabilize rather than deteriorate China-Philippines relations, and to bring the people of both countries closer rather than drift apart. My task is arduous, but I am confident and look forward to everyone’s strong support.”