THE Association to Promote Philippines-China Understanding (APCU), in partnership with the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, announced it is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (2024 APPCU).
The APCU is the pioneer non-government organization (NGO) in the country that seeks to build friendship, understanding, amity, and brotherhood among Filipinos and Chinese over the past five decades, thru people-to-people and cultural exchanges, among others.
Formally organized in 1974, it played a critical role in the establishment of diplomatic relationship between the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China during the historic state visit to China by Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., the following year. The APCU held its 50th anniversary only last February 26, 2024.
Although still new as an awards body having been organized only in 2021, the APPCU, on the other hand, has gained immediate support and recognition from the ranks of Filipino diplomats, the academe, media, and other sectors of Philippine society for the honor and prestige that it gave the awardees.
Among its most notable awardees are former presidents Joseph Estrada and Rodrigo Duterte, former Philippine envoy to China, Chito Sta. Romana, and, former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, mother of the incumbent Philippine president, Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.
The 2022 APPCU was given added prestige when then president-elect Marcos Jr., personally attended the event to hand out the plaques of recognition to the winners.
Commencing from March 11, nominations would be accepted until April 15, 2024, the APCU statement said.
Nominees would be selected thru their distinguished effort in enhancing bilateral relations, mutual understanding, and friendship between the Philippines and China through cultural, educational, or other collaborative initiatives.
Interested parties may contact the APPCU Secretariat via email: aapcu@apcu.org.ph.