HK builds on ‘historical friendship’ with Philippines to foster BRI projects despite China tensions

HONG KONG — Despite territorial tensions between the Philippines and China, Hong Kong (HK) officials have reaffirmed their openness to nurturing business opportunities with the Philippines, highlighting the strength of their “historical friendship.”

During a recent press briefing at the ongoing Belt and Road Summit in HK. Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Commissioner Nicholas Ho emphasized the inclusive nature of the BRI—China’s world-spanning infrastructure and investment project—and expressed optimism for continued collaboration with the Philippines.

“The Belt and Road Initiative is an inclusive platform. We work with everyone and want to work with everyone,” Ho told the media. “Our goal is to foster long-term partnerships to enhance regional connectivity and stability.”

In 2023, the Philippines made a decision to withdraw from three rail-funding discussions under China’s BRI, marking a notable shift in its approach to infrastructure financing. 

This move also came in with the simmering tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where territorial disputes have intensified between China and the Philippines. 

Nevertheless, HK remains optimistic about the growing connections between the two regions, as according to Ho, both people-to-people and business-to-business interactions with the Philippines are growing. 

Ho further acknowledged the deep-rooted ties between HK and the Philippines, noting, “There are many Philippine nationals in Hong Kong from different sectors, and we are the oldest of friends.” 

This sentiment is reflected in post-COVID travel trends, where visitors from the Philippines were among the first to surpass pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the robust connectivity between the two regions.

In a separate briefing, Dr Patrick Lau of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) reiterated that the “historical friendship” between HK and the Philippines will endure, adding that “business opportunities for Filipino enterprises in Hong Kong have not diminished at all.”

“Regardless of political considerations, business communities can still benefit from each other,” he emphasized.

HK believes the Philippines can leverage its role as a “superconnector” to