Bangkok, ( People’s Daily ) – Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua said that aside from safeguarding Beijing's national security, China’s army has been "relentless” in making efforts to protect peace and stability in the region.

Hosted by the Chinese embassy in the Philippines, the reception to celebrate the 92nd anniversary of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (CPLA) was held in Manila Monday night.

Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana speaks at the reception celebrating the 92nd anniversary of the Chinese People's Liberation Army at Manila, July 29, 2019. (Photo by People's Daily app)

Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana expressed optimism that the country's armed forces will have more beneficial agreements with China as they share common aspirations on peace and security.

According to the DND chief, the CPLA's celebration this year marks their victory over the challenges and threats they have successfully dealt with to protect China, its people, and its national interests.

The Philippine defense force joins not only in this celebration, but also in manifesting the values of solidarity and amity with the rest of the world, affirming the Philippines and China’s strong commitment to peace, security, and stability in the world, according to Lorenzana.

"We can very well relate to your experience as our counterpart, our Armed Forces of the

Philippines, relentlessly and devotedly deals with almost the same concerns to protect our country's peace and security and advance our national interests," he said.

"This is evident in our Annual Defense and Security Talks or ADST with China, where we tackle areas of mutual concern including terrorism, violent extremism, transnational crime, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response," Lorenzana added.