WAKING up yesterday, I was surprised to receive a Viber message from my boss. The message included a photo of the first page of my article published in a commemorative book, accompanied by the text: “My early morning read!”
The past two weeks have seen turbulence in Philippine–China diplomatic relations, from the decision to grant visa-free entry to Mainland Chinese tourists for up to 14 days to a series of unnecessary “word wars” between the Chinese embassy and Filipino senators. It seems that the post-golden jubilee era of bilateral relations is already entering a chaotic and uncertain phase
Yet, against the backdrop of amplified calls to declare the newly-arrived Chinese ambassador as persona non-grata, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) executed a prudent move. By asserting that persona non grata declarations should be an option of last resort, the DFA – the government body primarily mandated to handle foreign and diplomatic affairs in the country – calls for restraint. Cognizant of the possible consequences, DFA Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro has been faithful to her words when she assumed the position last year. In a July 11, 2025, press conference, Lazaro remarked:
“It is a strategic consideration that we continue the dialogue and consultation with China, even amidst tensions that severely impact the bilateral relationship…Our diplomacy will continue to firmly protest and disagree where it is right, but also collaborate where it is practical and beneficial for the country.”
As tensions start to subside, it is now an opportunity to educate ourselves regarding the multifaceted nature of Philippine-China diplomatic relations. With the numerous books, articles, videos, and academic works published on the topic, allow me to use this column to showcase the contents of Ginto – the recently-published coffee table book of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (FFCCCII), in commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Philippine-China diplomatic relations last year. Launched in Dec 2025, the book contains a compilation of essays written by historians, political scientists, international relations experts, literary figures, culture and lifestyle writers, etc.
As a coffee table book, Ginto serves as a good educational resource for ordinary Filipinos who are interested in understanding the multifaceted dimensions of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China beyond the territorial disputes. Specifically, without the intention to violate existing copyright laws, allow me to showcase selected chapters from the book, which I regard as particularly instructive.
One chapter provided a comprehensive list of agreements between the Philippines and China, ranging from economic partnerships to various modes of bilateral cooperation with regard to people-to-people relations and various non-traditional security issues (e.g. transnational crime).
Another chapter also listed the existing sub-national partnerships, especially sister-city arrangements, between various local governments between the Philippines and China – a dimension of diplomatic relations where many ordinary Filipinos are clueless. By educating the public regarding these inter-city relations between the two Asian nations, Ginto asserts that amicable relations between Filipinos and Chinese are still possible despite political tensions between their respective national governments.
Finally, the chapter on Chinese investments in the Philippines also raises interesting insights regarding economic relations between the Philippines and China. One appalling claim in the essay is the assertion that the volume of Chinese investments entering the Philippines is not solidly linked to either a friendly or adversarial position of the Philippine president to China. In addition, the chapter also provided a nuanced take on the accusation regarding China’s debt-trap diplomacy strategy, as well as outlined reasons why and how the Philippines can maximize investments coming from China.
If there is one lesson to take from Ginto, it is that Philippine–China relations are multi-layered, complex, and not reducible to headlines or political skirmishes. Beyond territorial disputes, diplomacy encompasses economic partnerships, cultural exchanges, and local-level collaborations, which are dimensions that are often ignored in public discourse.
By engaging with educational resources like Ginto, Filipinos can better appreciate the breadth and nuance of bilateral relations, equipping citizens, policymakers, and business leaders with the knowledge to contribute meaningfully to dialogue and decision-making. In an era where tensions frequently dominate the news, education offers a pathway toward mutual understanding, constructive engagement, and strategic thinking—small but essential steps in ensuring that Philippine interests remain at the forefront of any interaction with China.
Brian U. Doce is a scholar-practitioner with a background in politics and international relations. Aside from being a lecturer in various universities in Metro Manila, Brian has extensive experience working in the space of business-government relations, policy advocacy, and diplomacy. You can contact him through his e-mail: scholarbud@gmail.com.
