MANILA— The Chinese embassy’s Callawa Water Pumping Project broke ground in Buhangin, Davao on Thursday, marking what Ambassador Zhao Jianhua described as the “testimony” of Beijing’s commitment to assist Manila in its development.
“Both as developing countries, China and the Philippines are good neighbors helping each other and trusted partners benefiting each other. This water pumping station in Callawa stands testimony to China’s sincere commitment in helping the Philippines improve the people’s livelihood, alleviate poverty and achieve balanced and sustainable growth,” Zhao said in his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony in Davao.
Aside from Zhao, the ceremony was graced by Davao Mayor Sara Duterte, as well as over 100 representatives from Davao City Hall, Callawa Barangay Hall, and non-government organizations.
“Just one month ago, President Rodrigo Duterte and Mayor Sara went to Hainan, China and attended the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference. Our two leaders once again met with each other and reiterated the commitment to further carry forward China-Philippines relations,” said Zhao.
“With the visionary guidance from our leaders and concerted efforts of our peoples, the China-Philippines relations are bound to ride winds and break waves, while the practical cooperation between our two countries will bear more fruits and bring more benefits to our peoples,” he added.
Mayor Duterte, for her part, thanked the Chinese embassy’s generosity.
She said that with the “betterment and deepening of the Philippines-China relations,” China is offering more assistance to Davao’s infrastructure development, livelihood improvement, environment management and urban-rural balanced growth.
“Once again proves that the Philippines-China friendship and practical cooperation serve the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples,” she said.
The project consists of a deep-water pumping well, water tower, power-engine room and related equipment as well as a drinking water pipe-network leading into households.
According to the embassy, the project is expected to be completed in six months, which will then greatly ease the scarcity of drinking water in mountainous areas, and benefit around 3,000 households. (Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA)
