SHANGHAI – Adding a sports diplomacy facet to the ongoing celebration of 50 years of Philippines-China diplomatic relations, a highly successful “Basketball Friendship Game” was held on June 08 2025 at the Shanghai Lihui Training Center in Minhang District.

Organized by the umbrella organization Filipino Community in Shanghai (FILCOMSHA) under its Chair Michelle Teope-Shen and officer Mr. Mark Ibañez, the event saw two mixed Filipino-Chinese teams – Red vs. Blue -- taking to the court to play a round of fun and exciting basketball.

PCG Vice Consul Richard L. Recella did the ceremonial jump ball. The match, a display of amity, sportsmanship and teamwork, concluded with the Red Team prevailing in a close game, 80-78. The Red Team included a PCG player, Attaché Mark Anthony Z. Geguera.

FILCOMSHA Chair Michelle Teope-Shen closed the event with a message of sincere appreciation and well-wishes for the future of Philippine-China ties.

The Philippines and the People’s Republic of China established diplomatic relations on 09 June 1975. END