How China’s belt and road initiative challenges sinophobia in the Philippines

Why do some countries harbor animosity toward China, especially when its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is focused on uplifting its partners? And why do some Filipinos hold negative views toward China, a country that has peacefully engaged with us long before both the Spanish and American colonization?

The historical ties between China and the Philippines have been largely peaceful, with Chinese traders and settlers engaging with our ancestors long before foreign powers arrived. The only significant conflict arose during Spanish colonial rule when the Spanish ordered the annihilation of the Chinese, or "Sangleys," in parts of the Philippines, simply because they were defending themselves.

Today, through the Belt and Road Initiative, the Philippines has greatly benefited from China’s support in vital sectors like infrastructure and trade. Despite these positive contributions, China continues to face criticism, often driven by economic competition or stereotypes, rather than genuine concerns. While the US and certain European countries maintain favorable images despite their involvement in today’s major wars, China’s efforts are often overlooked or unfairly criticized, hindering meaningful dialogue and cooperation between nations.

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the notable and recent ways China has supported the Philippines' progress.

Modernizing Infrastructure

The participation of Chinese investments in the Philippines’ infrastructure projects has been transformative. In Metro Manila, the Binondo-Intramuros Bridge and the Estrella-Pantaleon Bridge have significantly improved connectivity and alleviated traffic congestion. Beyond the capital, the New Centennial Water Source - Kaliwa Dam Project aims to address the water supply crisis, while the Chico River Pump Irrigation Project is currently irrigating 7,530 hectares in Tuao and Piat, Cagayan, and 1,170 hectares in Pinukpuk, Kalinga. These initiatives highlight a strong commitment to supporting the country’s infrastructure needs, fostering sustainable growth and development across various regions.

Strengthening energy security through Belt and Road Initiative investments

The days of frequent power outages that disrupted daily life and businesses have significantly decreased, thanks to the modernization efforts of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), with expertise and investment from the State Grid Corporation of China since 2009. This partnership has upgraded the country’s power transmission system, ensuring more reliable and efficient electricity delivery nationwide.

Serving as the main conduit between power generators and local distributors, NGCP’s network of transmission lines and substations enables the smooth transfer of electricity to households, businesses, and industries. By improving grid stability and efficiency, these advancements have bolstered economic productivity and enhanced the quality of life for millions of Filipinos.

Increasing trade opportunities

From 2021 to 2023, the Philippines exported over $34 billion worth of goods to China, averaging $11.3 billion annually—equivalent to approximately ₱640 billion. This represents a remarkable increase from the $6 billion recorded in 2012.

The strong demand for Philippine agricultural products, such as bananas and pineapples, has provided stable incomes for local farmers, uplifting rural communities and sustaining livelihoods.

In return, imports such as apples, grapes, cherries, peaches, and plums provide Filipinos with access to fruits that are not grown locally due to climate constraints. This mutual exchange not only strengthens economic ties but also enriches daily life, showcasing the complementary relationship between the two nations.

Chinese tourism despite sinophobia

In 2019, Chinese tourists accounted for nearly 1.7 million visitors to the Philippines, making them one of the largest contributors to the country’s tourism revenue. Popular destinations like Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan flourished due to this influx, providing a significant boost to local businesses and invigorating the economy.

Despite instances of sinophobia fueled by isolated issues, China remained a key driver of Philippine tourism. Even in more challenging times, Chinese visitors ranked fourth in tourist arrivals, with 312,222 travelers contributing to the livelihoods of 6.21 million Filipinos in the hospitality industry.

Advancing technology and e-commerce

Filipino businesses, from large corporations to small enterprises, have greatly benefited from partnerships with Chinese tech giants like Huawei, which have introduced cutting-edge telecommunications technology through collaborations with PLDT and Globe. These advancements have improved connectivity and fostered innovation for millions of Filipinos.

E-commerce platforms like Alibaba and Lazada have also empowered small retailers by offering affordable access to online marketplaces, eliminating the need for costly physical stores and fostering economic growth nationwide.

Given all these contributions, it’s puzzling why some groups and organizations harbor animosity toward the Chinese people based on isolated issues. China’s presence is rooted in mutual growth and investment, aiming to build alongside us. This contrasts with the 300 years of Spanish exploitation of our labor and resources, and the Americans’ history of exploiting resources and causing immense suffering to Filipinos during their occupation.

China’s investments and partnerships have undeniably bolstered the Philippines’ infrastructure, energy security, trade opportunities, and overall economic growth. By highlighting these tangible benefits, we can challenge misconceptions, bridge divides, and foster a more constructive dialogue on Filipino-Chinese relations.

Peace is not something you wish for, it is something you make, something you are, something you do and something you give away. ” – Robert Fulghum

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