Philippine Ambassador Florcruz Inspires International Students in China to Pursue Climate Solutions for Home Country

Jiuquan, Gansu, China (October 27, 2024)

The Republic of the Philippines’ Ambassador to China, Jaime A. Florcruz, concluded a transformative three-day visit to Jiuquan City in northwestern China’s Gansu Province, where he met with Filipino students who are studying renewable energy engineering at the Jiuquan Vocational Technical College (JVTC).

“Our country is among the most vulnerable to climate change impacts, while our electricity price is among the least affordable. What you are studying at JVTC will help the Philippines achieve its energy transition goals faster; more importantly, it will help our people to get cheaper electricity and healthier environment,” Ambassador Florcruz told the students.

The 28 Filipino students are studying wind and solar power technology at JVTC, one of China’s leading institutions in renewable energy education. The Future Renewable Energy Engineering (FREE) program, initiated by Manila-based advocacy group People of Asia for Climate Solutions (PACS), has been sending two batches of Filipino students to JVTC, mostly from Leyte and Nueva Ecija Provinces.

From left to right are Wu Kai（Vice President of Goldwind）、 Ambassador Florcruz and Xiaojun Wang（PACS Executive Director）.

“Climate change is the biggest global and generational injustice today.   Our students from Leyte had first-hand experience with Super Typhoon “Haiyan” (locally known as Typhoon “Yolanda”) when they were only 7 or 8 years old,” said Xiaojun Wang, PACS Executive Director. “Here in Jiuquan, one of China’s earliest and largest renewable energy bases, they shall be empowered and turned into climate victors, instead of victims.”

The delegation visit to Goldwind Science & Technology Co. Ltd.

Together, the delegation embarked on an enriching tour of Goldwind Science & Technology Co. Ltd, a reliable global strategic partner in clean energy. “The Philippines has rich wind power resources, and Goldwind is committed to supporting the country in achieving its renewable energy targets. Our current wind farm project in Laguna Province will provide clean energy and sustainable jobs to the local communities,” Wu Kai, Vice President of Goldwind and Chairman of Goldwind International said at the meeting.

The tour at Goldwind provided scholars with a unique opportunity to explore advanced renewable industry technologies, from turbine design and assembly to the latest innovations in energy storage and grid integration. Guided by experts from Goldwind, the scholars engaged in discussions about potential future collaborations, including specialized training sessions and interactive seminars to deepen their knowledge and skills in renewable energy systems and to prepare them for future internship and career opportunities.

The delegation visit to Great Wall of China.

The delegation continued their cultural exchange with a visit to the iconic Great Wall of China, a symbol of resilience and historical significance. As they walked its storied paths, the group reflected on the cultural and educational importance of the visit. Ambassador Florcruz, who has worked and lived in China for over 50 years, shared insights into China’s rich history, drawing parallels to the Filipino students’ renewable energy education journey ahead. The Great Wall visit emphasized the value of unity and shared purpose between the two nations in tackling global challenges like climate change while fostering respect for each other's heritage. This cultural experience allowed the scholars to see firsthand that cooperation and understanding can build bridges between nations and inspire greater international collaboration for sustainable development.

In a heartfelt meeting, Ambassador Florcruz shared his remarkable journey in China—a story of resilience, adaptability, and dedication. Reflecting on his early years, he recounted arriving as a student and working as a farmer and fisherman while enduring hardships that strengthened his spirit. His experiences taught him humility and discipline, ultimately guiding him from journalism to diplomacy. As ambassador, he embodies a bridge between cultures and a model of Filipino resilience abroad.

His words left a powerful impression on the scholars, especially his purpose statement: “Head-bowed, like a willing ox, I serve the children.” This metaphor emphasized his commitment to a life of service, inspiring scholars to see their struggles as steps toward greater aspirations. Clint Warren Bacayo, a Batch 2 PACS-JVTC scholar, expressed this sentiment, saying, “I aspire to have the ambassador’s strength so that I too can realize my dreams to contribute to my community.”

Scholars after a tradional dance.

The cultural exchange reached a memorable highlight during a showcase celebrating the bond between the Philippines and China. The scholars performed the traditional "Tiklos" folk dance, embodying the values of solidarity central to Filipino culture. Ambassador Florcruz added a heartfelt touch by performing a song blending Mandarin and Tagalog lyrics, symbolizing the bridging of cultures and highlighting his connection to both countries.

In an emotional open forum, the scholars expressed their gratitude and dreams for the future, emphasizing the life-changing impact of their studies in renewable energy. Many spoke of their ambitions rooted in the desire to contribute to the Philippines' sustainable energy and climate resilience.

Prof. Oscar S. Gabriel Jr., Organizational Development Director of PACS, captured the forum's sentiment with his message: “Your aspiration is our mission. Both PACS and the Philippine Embassy for China will always be here to support you.” This assurance reinforced the scholars' sense of belonging and purpose in their pursuit of a sustainable future.

The visit exemplified the enduring and growing ties between the Philippines and China, illustrating how meaningful exchanges can deepen mutual understanding and respect. This collaboration signifies a joint pledge to sustainable development, showcasing how the partnership extends beyond diplomacy to embody aspirations for a cleaner, more resilient world.

As Filipino scholars gain skills in wind and solar energy, they invest not only in their futures but also in the sustainable advancement of their home country and the broader Asia-Pacific region. The visit underscored the shared vision of the Philippines and China to empower the next generation of environmental stewards and renewable energy leaders, forging a path toward a greener, more sustainable future.