Distinguished guests,
Dear teachers and students,

Good morning! It is a great pleasure to join you all in witnessing this significant moment for the Magbok Filipino-Chinese Friendship Elementary School.

On behalf of the Chinese Consulate General in Davao, I wish to extend my warm congratulations on the school’s successful completion. I would like to express my gratitude to the Association of Davao Filipino-Chinese Communities and the individuals who contributed funds and efforts to the school's construction, as well as to the government and the school administration for their assistance throughout the project.

Though the former school buildings were damaged by an earthquake, the children’s dreams of learning never wavered. At that critical juncture, the Association of Davao Filipino-Chinese Communities and overseas Chinese passionate about education generously contributed, playing a vital role in the school’s reconstruction.

As a Chinese saying goes, "No matter how poor, never neglect education; no matter how hard, never let children suffer." This profoundly reflects China’s consistent emphasis on education.

China has always regarded education as a cornerstone for national rejuvenation and social progress. President Xi Jinping has stated that education equity is a vital foundation for social fairness. We strive to ensure equitable and high-quality education reaches every corner of the country, illuminating the dreams of every child.

Today, China has established the world’s largest education system, providing robust safeguards for children’s equal access to education. Basic education balance has been achieved in 2,895 counties across the country. The gross enrollment rate in preschool education has reached 92%, while that in higher education stands at 60.8%, entering a stage of universalization recognized worldwide.

Prioritizing children and education above all else is equally a simple yet profound aspiration shared by the Chinese and Filipino peoples for the healthy growth of the next generation.

China and the Philippines share geographical proximity and cultural affinity, with educational cooperation serving as a vital bond in our friendly relations. The school we inaugurate today is not merely a building for knowledge-it marks a new beginning for Sino-Philippine friendship.

We envision this place becoming a cradle for nurturing talents-a place that imparts knowledge and skills while building bridges for cultural exchange .

Dear students, you are the future of the Philippines and the inheritors of Sino-Philippine friendship. Cherish this hard-won opportunity to learn, strive for excellence, and grow into pillars who advance your nation’s development and deepen the friendship between our two countries.

In the face of adversity, national and ethnic boundaries fade away. The overseas Chinese community in the Philippines actively fulfill their social responsibilities, spreading compassion and love.

Let us take the completion of this school building as a starting point to translate our commitment to education into tangible actions. May the friendship between China and the Philippines take root and bear fruit in the hearts of these children , ensuring that the spirit of Sino-Philippine cooperation is passed down through generations.

Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season!