MANILA — While an official announcement has yet to be made, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines confirmed Friday that more humanitarian and financial support to the country are to be expected next year.
Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Li Lingxiao disclosed this after China extended its latest financial aid to Pampanga, which had been badly affected by the avian flu outbreak last August.
“We will announce future donation and assistance project in due time,” Li told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
“Yes, there will be more in 2018.”
On Dec. 5, Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua handed over a total of PHP7.7 million to Pampanga to help lift local farmers and their families affected by the bird flu outbreak.
The poultry sector in Pampanga lost nearly PHP200 million after 420,000 chicken, ducks, and quails were culled.
In a ceremony held in Pampanga, Zhao said he “felt for Filipino friends in Pampanga”, saying China also suffered many cases of bird flu in the past.
“A friend in need is a friend indeed,” he said. “We sincerely hope that this humble share of assistance would add strength to the endeavor by Pampanga government and people in recovering from their losses in an effective and productive manner.”
In a statement, the embassy said it stands ready “to strengthen cooperation with Pampanga, and work with the Philippine side to further advance China-Philippines relations”. (Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA)
