China pledges COVID-19 aid to PH

China assured the Philippines of its readiness to provide assistance in combating the COVID-19 outbreak, with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian conveying the commitment during a courtesy call with President Rodrigo Duterte.

President Duterte extended sympathies to the Chinese people affected by the virus and affirmed the Philippines' solidarity with China, also offering condolences for those affected by a quarantine facility collapse in Quanzhou, Fujian.

The Philippine government had previously donated 52 boxes of emergency medical and food supplies to Wuhan.

Ambassador Huang expressed China's appreciation for the Philippines' solidarity and support, reaffirming China's willingness to help based on the latter's needs.

Huang conveyed confidence in Duterte's leadership and the Inter-agency Task Force's ability to defeat the virus, noting China's rigorous epidemic control measures.

Duterte and Huang reaffirmed the commitment to boost economic cooperation, with Duterte looking forward to more robust trade and improved access for Philippine exports to the Chinese market.

Ambassador Huang assured Duterte of China's desire for deeper cooperation, particularly in infrastructure development, noting steady progress in joint projects.