President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Wednesday, June 28 expressed appreciation to the assistance of the Chinese to the country as he graced the 140th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Chinese Charitable Association Inc. (PCCAI).

“I’m really very, very almost in the sense of gratitude sa Chinese,” the Chief Executive said in his speech at the Fiesta Pavillion of the Manila Hotel.

“So I was really very thankful to President Xi Jinping and to China and expressed my gratitude and to you guys,” he said, as he recalled his conversation with the Chinese leader during his visit in May.

Prior to his attendance to the PCCAI’s anniversary, Duterte led the handover of four cargo planes of firearms and ammunitions from Beijing.

In his speech, the President also acknowledged the officials and employees of the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center.

“I’d like to pay tribute and homage to the men and women behind the Chinese General Hospital when it was first established,” he said.

“I’m sure they are not around but their humanity and love of fellowmen remains and it is conveyed and transferred from one generation to another,” he said.

“Kaya sabi ko nga na ano, nung nalaman ko, pasalamat ako na mga sundalo pati libre diyan sa Chinese Gen,” the President added.

Joining Duterte at the event were former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Senator Richard Gordon, among others.###PND