In a heartfelt tribute to the Filipino-Chinese community, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on Friday expressed her deep gratitude for their invaluable contributions to the country’s trade, culture and ongoing development.

The First Lady made her remarks at a special thanksgiving dinner to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Philippine-China diplomatic relations.

“A BIG thank you to our Filipino-Chinese community for always being part of our country’s trade and cultural growth,” Mrs. Marcos shared in her Instagram post after the event.

She went on to highlight the vital work done to preserve and promote Manila’s Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in the world.

She expressed immense pride in the community’s efforts to revitalize this historic hub, making it a symbol of the enduring ties between the Philippines and China.

“Can’t thank you enough for your support in revitalizing Manila’s Chinatown,” she said, referring to it as an emblem of cultural and historical significance.

Mrs. Marcos also expressed her gratitude for the community’s involvement in the remarkable transformation of the Pasig River, where iconic bridges were illuminated, symbolizing hope, unity and progress.

The Pasig River project is a key initiative overseen by the First Lady. Now in its third phase of rehabilitation, the Pasig River Esplanade promises to be a true gem of urban renewal.