PRRD to Chinese-Filipinos: Usher greater peace, understanding

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech after leading the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital (SLRGH) in Malabon City on January 29, 2019. TOTO LOZANO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA — President Rodrigo R. Duterte called on the Chinese Filipinos and the entire nation to hold on to values that usher peace and understanding, as the country is set to celebrate the Chinese New Year on Tuesday, February 5.

“Together, let us cultivate the values and ideas that fuel our strong resolve to usher in a period of greater peace and understanding as we rise higher above the challenges ahead,” Duterte said in his Chinese New Year message on Monday.

Duterte also recognized the “unique culture” brought about by the long-time friendship between the Philippines and China.

“The friendship and cooperation forged between the Philippines and China have not only led to greater prosperity and economic growth for both our nations, but also gave rise to a unique culture that is nurtured by harmony amidst diversity,” Duterte said.

Meanwhile, the President expressed hope that the Chinese New Year would bring Chinese Filipinos and the entire nation “more achievements”.

“May this New Year bring hope, inspiration and more achievements for the Chinese-Filipino community and the entire nation,” Duterte said.

“A happy Chinese New Year to all of you!” he added.

Duterte earlier declared Feb. 5 as special non-working day to allow Chinese-Filipinos to join the festival, which celebrates the beginning of a new year based on the traditional Chinese calendar.

Although the Philippines and China are facing a maritime dispute over the West Philippine Sea, ties between the two countries improved after Duterte prioritized friendly bilateral talks and temporarily shelved the international arbitration court’s verdict that trashed China’s claim over islands and formations in the contested waters.