First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos hosted Chinese dignitaries at the Laperal Mansion last week. The occasion also marked the appointment of Jing Quan as the new Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Philippines.

Jing presented his credentials to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on 11 December at Malacañang.

“A lovely luncheon surrounded by friends — both old and new,” said the First Lady in a social media post.

Mrs. Marcos said she is looking forward to having meaningful relations with the new Chinese ambassador, especially as Manila and Beijing celebrate the golden anniversary of diplomatic ties.

“We warmly welcome His Excellency Jing Quan, the new Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Philippines, as he begins his tenure at a meaningful juncture — as we mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China,” she added.

The First Lady also lauded the steadfast support of the Filipino-Chinese community in initiatives that celebrate the shared culture and heritage between the two countries.

“Thank you also for your commitment to revitalize Manila Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in the world,” she noted.

One of Mrs. Marcos’ key initiatives, the Pasig River Revitalization Project, traverses Binondo and the project received support from Jing’s predecessor, Huang Xilian.

“We look forward to celebrating the Year of the Horse with you in 2026! ‘Xie xie’ (Thank you),” she said.