The appointment of Jaime Florcruz as the Philippines’ new ambassador to China was confirmed on December 7 by the country’s Commission on Appointments.
Jaime Florcruz was a student activist who went to China in 1971 to witness the impact of the “cultural revolution”. He was forced to remain in China after President Ferdinand E. Marcos, the father of the incumbent president, banned him from returning for alleged subversion. His former comrades think it is ironic that the former activist who defied Martial Law is now serving under the government of the dictator’s son. The Philippines should ensure that its armed forces, especially its coast guards and navy are well funded and well-trained, Foreign Secretary Eduardo Florcuz said. He called China “the rising power” and the United States “the status quo power” as he articulated the “delicate balance” that the Marcos government is doing to strengthen relations with the two rival superpowers.
He discussed some of China’s domestic concerns, such as the housing bubble and the impact of prolonged lockdowns on their neighbours. As of November 22, the Philippine government has issued 189 diplomatic protests against China this year, 61 of which were made since Marcos took office in July. The visit will take place after Marcos has reestablished closer ties with Washington over the past several months.
