The Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Cebu hosted a Chinese New Year Reception on February 13, gathering members of the Chinese community, business leaders, and local partners ahead of the Lunar New Year on February 17 to welcome the Year of the Horse.

The annual reception is one of the most significant events for the Chinese community in Cebu. Beyond celebrating the Chinese New Year, it serves as a symbol of unity, cultural heritage, and renewed commitment to strengthening ties between China and Visayas.

In her keynote address, Consul General Zhang Zhen opened the evening with a message of optimism and renewal. She highlighted China’s economic achievements under its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025), noting that China’s GDP reached 140 trillion yuan in 2025 and accounted for about 30 percent of the world’s economic growth annually. She underscored China’s advancements in digital economy, artificial intelligence, 5G technology, green energy, and international cooperation through expanded free trade agreements and the Belt and Road Initiative. Looking ahead, Zhang said that with the launch of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan in 2026, the country’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global cooperation will continue to create shared opportunities worldwide.

Addressing political matters, she emphasized the importance of national unity. “Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, a fact acknowledged by the overwhelming majority of the international community,” she said, while encouraging continued support for the one-China principle. Drawing on the symbolism of the Year of the Horse, Zhang described it as a sign of strength, perseverance, and partnership. The Consul General noted that the relationship between the Chinese and Filipino peoples is “a long journey—one marked by centuries of trade, cultural exchange, and shared stories across the seas.” She also recalled the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines last year, highlighting the strong desire among the people for closer cooperation. “The Consulate General in Cebu is committed to promoting friendship and cooperation between the two sides on the local level,” Zhang said, expressing hope that more partners will work together to foster mutual trust and shared prosperity.

The Governor Pam Baricuatro specially sent a representative to deliver her congratulatory speech at the Reception. The evening concluded with well wishes for health, success, and enduring friendship between the two nations as they usher in the Year of the Horse.