THE OFFICE of the Chinese Consulate in Davao held a ceremonial turnover of 580 wheelchairs for Persons with Disabilities to the City Government of Davao on Wednesday, May 20, at Rizal Park.
The wheelchairs are a donation from the People’s Republic of China through its China Aid program.
”These wheelchairs are not merely assistive devices; they are symbols of care, respect, and friendship. In China, we hold a deeply rooted belief: the true progress of a society depends on how it treats its most vulnerable members—the elderly, the sick, and those with disabilities. Our governance philosophy is simple and clear: putting people first and leaving no one behind,” said Zhao Xiuzhen, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China.
In response, Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte expressed his gratitude on behalf of the city.
”The relationship between Davao and China has always been more than just a partnership. It is a friendship nurtured through years of collaboration, cultural exchange, and shared aspirations,” the mayor said.
Duterte acknowledged the various forms of assistance and support provided by the People’s Republic of China over the decades, from macro-infrastructure projects and groundwork initiatives, such as the recently opened Bucana Bridge, to bags of food, tablet computers, school bags, and educational supplies, which have greatly “benefited thousands of Davaoeños on a personal level.”
During the symbolic distribution, selected beneficiaries, mostly from the Poblacion area, were present to receive the donation to ensure mobility and accessibility.
The rest of the donated wheelchairs will be distributed to identified beneficiaries through the City’s Social Welfare and Development Office, in coordination with the Persons with Disability Affairs Office of the City Government of Davao.
