President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. welcomed China’s plan to launch direct flights between Cebu and Fujian, calling it a positive step in strengthening bilateral relations.
The announcement was made by Chinese Ambassador to Manila Jing Quan during the launch of Chinatown Revitalization Phase II in Binondo, Manila.
Marcos expressed his appreciation:
“I thank you very much for the good news that you have brought about the flights going to Cebu… And I hope that it will be the beginning of more interactions and people-to-people exchange between China and the Philippines.”
The first flight is set for March 29, with two weekly trips initially, and additional flights planned depending on demand.
Jing noted that Cebu residents had requested the route, highlighting that 90% of Filipino-Chinese trace their roots to Fujian.
Additional flights between Manila and Fujian were also announced, alongside plans for enhanced law enforcement cooperation to ensure safe exchanges.
Despite recent tensions between Philippine officials and the Chinese Embassy, Marcos emphasized the value of people-to-people connections in building stronger ties between the two countries.