PRRD joins Chinese-Filipinos in celebrating Chinese New Year

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte RENE LUMAWAG/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA – President Rodrigo R. Duterte has recognized the role of the Filipino-Chinese communities in shaping the country’s national identify as he joined the celebration of Chinese New Year on Friday.

“As an integral component of Philippine society, Chinese-Filipinos will continue to play an important role in shaping our national identity and in upholding the beauty of diversity in our respective cultures,” Duterte said in his Chinese New Year message.

Duterte said the Philippines will continue to share a long and colorful history with the Chinese people.

“This enduring friendship has contributed to our rich culture, stimulate trade between our nations and fortified the foundation of our continuing quest for economic development,” he said.

Duterte encouraged the Chinese-Filipinos to take the celebration as occasion to strengthen the “sense of solidarity and goodwill as a single nation committed to the preservation of our unique and multi-faceted Filipino heritage.”

“May the Lunar New Year bring more opportunities for growth and success to all of us,” the President said.

The Philippines-China relations have improved since Duterte, a popular mayor of Davao City, took over as President in June 2016