MANILA, Philippines — The Association for Philippines–China Understanding (APCU) has officially opened nominations for the 6th Award for Promoting Philippines–China Understanding (APPCU) 2026 during a launch held Friday at the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) in Binondo, Manila.
During a press conference, APCU Chairman and President Raul Lambino announced that the 2026 edition marks the sixth staging of the APPCU Awards, organized in coordination with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Philippines.
Lambino expressed gratitude to the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) for allowing the use of its venue for the event.
The APPCU Awards were first organized in 2020 through the initiative of former Education Secretary Alejandro Roces and former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who now serves as Representative of Pampanga.
According to Lambino, the awards aim to recognize Filipinos who have made significant contributions in promoting friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding between the Philippines and China.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people relations between the two countries through education, cultural exchanges, business cooperation, and other collaborative initiatives.
Lambino also expressed confidence in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), led by Secretary Teresa Lazaro, in maintaining diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China despite ongoing issues in the West Philippine Sea.
The APPCU Awards recognize individuals in five categories who have helped foster better understanding and cooperation between the two nations.
The awards ceremony is tentatively scheduled for mid-June 2026, depending on the availability of the venue.
Meanwhile, APCU Director Mafee Cai said nominations may be submitted through the organization’s official website, apcu.org.ph, or via email. She added that all Filipinos are encouraged to nominate individuals who have contributed to strengthening Philippines–China relations.
Director Brian James Lu urged nominators to clearly explain how their nominees have helped promote better understanding between the two countries.
Also present during the launch were APCU Vice Chairman Sixto Benedicto and Directors Joaquin Sy and Dr. Lily Tan Lim, who encouraged the public to participate in the nomination process for the 6th APPCU Awards.
— G.I.E.C.E.L., AN-PAPI VP Visayas
Courtesy of Perfecto Raymundo, Mabuhay News Online, and Raffy Rico of Noon Break Balita.