June 9th, 2017 marked the 42nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of the Philippines. To celebrate this important occasion, the city government of Baguio and the Baguio Filipino-Chinese community jointly hosted the 16^th Philippine-China Friendship Day activities at the newly-built Filipino-Chinese Friendship Garden inside the botanical garden in Baguio. Chinese Consul and Head of Post to Laoag Mme. Wang Jianqun attended the activities together with Hon. Mayor of Baguio Mr. Mauricio Domogan, Mrs. Go, wife of Hon. Congressman Mark Go, city government officials and leaders of the local Filipino-Chinese community organizations. Programme of the day included congratulation and inspiring messages from dignitaries, ribbon-cutting of the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Garden and gift-sharing with persons with substance use disorder.

In her remarks at the opening ceremony, Consul Wang congratulated the city government of Baguio and the Baguio Filipino-Chinese community organizations for hosting the 16^th Philippine-China Friendship Day to celebrate the 42nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines. She spoke highly of the contribution and commitment of the local Filipino-Chinese community to the society and to the promotion of understanding and friendship between the Chinese and the Filipinos. "The newly-built Friendship Garden is a symbol of their dedication and commitment." she said. Consul Wang also mentioned the recent visit to China by President Duterte to attend the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. "The Philippines is an important partner in the joint construction of the 'Belt and Road'. China is willing to, together with the Philippines, promote the docking of bilateral development strategies, and push for more achievements on the road of common development, so as to better benefit the two peoples." she said.

The Hon. Mayor Domogan and Mrs. Go on behalf of the Hon. Congressman Mark Go also made inspiring messages. They talked about the importance of maintaining friendship and cooperation between the Filipinos and the Chinese and the contribution by the Filipino-Chinese community to the local societies. "The Filipino-Chinese are our brothers and sisters. At time of difficulties, it is the Filipino-Chinese community who extended a helping hand, for which the city government and its people are so grateful." they said.

At the opening ceremony, the local Filipino-Chinese community lion dance group and volunteer teachers from the Baguio Patriotic School gave a splendid performance.