The Filipino-Chinese community in the Philippines came together on June 9th. They celebrated Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day with a symbolic walkathon called “Lakad Magkaibigan” (Walk of Friendship). This event, organized by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), underscored the decades of friendship between the two cultures.
The walkathon commenced early on a Sunday morning, with participants gathering at the Binondo-Intramuros Bridge. The walk was led by FFCCCII President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, People’s Republic of China Ambassador Huang Xilian, and Senator Gringo Honasan. Manila City representatives were also there. The event symbolized unity and friendship.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the start of the walk. Two groups began on opposite sides of the bridge. They met in the middle and then proceeded together towards the Bonifacio and the Katipunan Revolution Monument.
The walkathon concluded at the monument. It included a wreath-laying ceremony. This commemorated the Philippines’ upcoming Independence Day on June 12th. This act further highlighted the shared history and values between the Filipino and Chinese communities in the country.
Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day highlights the long-standing relationship between the Philippines and China. It fosters cultural exchange and understanding between the two communities. The Lakad Magkaibigan walkathon provided a fitting symbol of this enduring friendship.
