On March 1, 2026, Consul & Head of Post Li Xiaoyan of Chinese Consulate in Laoag , paid a visit to La Union Province upon invitation. Hon. Governor Ortega and Vice Governor Sibuma, along with all provincial board members, warmly welcomed Li. The two sides exchanged views on China-Philippines provincial cooperation and sisterhood.

Consul Li attended the "Governor's Awards" ceremony of La Union Province. Gov. Ortega presented the award to the Consulate in recognition of its long-standing contributions to promoting subnational cooperation and friendship between China and the Philippines.