Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed China’s newly designated ambassador, Jing Quan, in a courtesy meeting that both sides framed as an opportunity to stabilize and recalibrate Manila’s relationship with Beijing.
He described China as one of the Philippines’ “most important friends and partners,” saying he hoped for “many opportunities” to strengthen cooperation despite ongoing tensions.
“I look forward to working with you in managing the differences and intensifying the cooperation between our two countries,” Marcos told Jing. “Our differences should be the exception in our ties rather than the norm.”
Jing’s arrival marks a delicate moment in Philippine-China diplomacy. Upon landing in Manila, he told Chinese state media he intended to serve as a stabilizing force.
“I will firmly safeguard China’s national interests and dignity, while also serving as a bridge to ensure China-Philippines relations stabilize rather than deteriorate, and that our peoples draw closer instead of drifting apart,” he was quoted by the Global Times as saying. “The task is heavy, but I am confident.”
The administration has repeatedly said that it seeks to “redefine” ties with China – expanding economic and cultural cooperation while frankly addressing disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
“When you talk about China and the Philippines, all you talk about are the territorial disputes,” Marcos said in earlier remarks. “I think there is a huge possibility for trade, for exchanges … that do not include these territorial disputes.”
The president said strong defense ties with the United States even as he pursues economic engagement with Beijing. Chinese interest in Philippine infrastructure, energy cooperation and trade remains part of Manila’s diplomatic agenda.
Still, the relationship has been tested by recent actions from Beijing – including its declaration of a “national nature reserve” over Bajo de Masinloc – which Manila denounced as a violation of Philippine sovereignty. Marcos has urged a more active regional role in dispute management and expressed optimism that negotiations on a Code of Conduct between ASEAN and China could advance during the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship in 2026.
The Chinese embassy said Jing will prioritize diplomatic dialogue and efforts to broaden economic and cultural ties. His formal credentials are expected to be presented to Marcos in the coming days, officially marking the beginning of his tenure.
