CHINGGAY V. An anniversary and a fond farewell

The 69th founding anniversary of the People’s Republic of China (PROC) was held at the Grand Ballroom of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu this year with a tinge of sentimentality as in the words of Consul General Shi Yong of the PROC Consulate in Cebu, “This is my last time to host a reception in Cebu, and I feel so lucky to be able to contribute my own bit to our bilateral friendship...”

Indeed, China has grown into the world’s second largest economy, the largest industrial producer, and the largest trader of goods. In the first half of 2018, China’s gross domestic product reached 41,896 billion yuan, equal to six trillion US dollars.

After such an awesome report, the evening switched to an entertainment mode, with exquisite dances from some Chinese schools, interspersed with a glowing review of the Consulate’s major community projects in Cebu. These were turned over to Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III and Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale for the province as well as city projects received by DMDP (Department of Manpower Development and Placement) head Fidel Magno and Councilor Sisinio Andales, and City Councilor Mary Ann De Los Santos.

Throughout Consul Yong’s term, we were enthralled by special events such as Chinese New Year, the Chinese Spring Festival etc.

In closing, we remember with fondness, his farewell message:

“...while busy with some unfinished business, I hope to take a dip in your waters, and walk its corners. I haven’t left yet, but I am already missing all of you...”

Balik-balik, Consul Yong!

FILIPINO-CHINESE businessmen in Cebu with Consul General Shi Yong. From left: Guo Aping, Tertullano Tolentino, Consul General Shi Yong, Anton Ho, Tony Tanzensiok, a guest, Antonio Chua Hansing and Augusto Go.

MARCO POLO PLAZA CEBU Grand Ballroom during the reception.

PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT of Bohol’s administrator Alfonso Damalerio, Consul GeneralShi Yong, Philippine National Police Region 7’s comptroller P/ Sr. Superintendent Ronald Lee, PNP Region 7 Director General Debold Sinas, Central Command Commander Lt. General Paul Atal and Consular Attache Jiang Wen.

THE “FLOWER DREAMS” dance was presented by the Cebu Cherish School.

CEBU GOV. HILARIO DAVIDE III and Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale at the ceremonial turnover for the donation of physical and occupational therapy equipment intended for the PWD Therapeutic and Rehabilitation Center owned by the Cebu Provincial Government.

FIDEL MAGNO, head of Cebu City’s Department of Manpower Development and Placement, with Cebu City Councilor Sisinio Andales and Consul General Shi Yong for the ceremonial turnover of brand-new computers.

CEBU GOV. HILARIO DAVIDE III and wife Jobel with Consul General Shi Yong.

CEBU CITY COUNCILOR Mary Ann De Los Santos at the ceremonial turnover of 110 hospital beds for Cebu City Medical Center.

CONSULAR Attache Jiang Wen acted as host for the reception.