Fujian's Historical Ties with the Philippines Celebrated Through Rizal and Maritime Silk Road

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Fujian’s Historical Ties with the Philippines Celebrated Through Rizal and Maritime Silk Road

November 4, 2026

Fujian:Around 1,300 years ago, Chinese merchants from Jinjiang County in Fujian, China, embarked on journeys across the world, with many settling in the Philippines. This migration has left a significant mark on the historical and cultural ties between the Philippines and Fujian, particularly through the legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal, a descendant of one such migrant.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ke Nan, who migrated to the Philippines and became known as Domingo Lamco, was a forebear of Dr. Jose Rizal. Rizal's ancestry is a source of pride in Fujian, where a replica of Manila's Luneta Park stands in his honor. The park features an 18.61-meter monument with a 3.3-meter bronze statue of Rizal, symbolizing the enduring friendship and communication between China and the Philippines.

In addition to the park, the Jinjiang Museum dedicates a section to Rizal, showcasing statues and paintings donated by Filipino artists. The museum uses comparisons with Chinese historical figures to introduce Rizal's legacy to visitors, emphasizing his role as a national hero of the Philippines. The museum also highlights the contributions of other prominent Filipino figures with Chinese roots, such as former presidents and business tycoons.

Beyond Rizal, Fujian's connection to the Philippines is also reflected in the Yang Family Mansion in Quanzhou, built by Chinese trader Yang Bangsuo, who settled in the Philippines before returning to China. The mansion, a blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles, is one of the largest residences built by an overseas Chinese in Quanzhou.

Zhangzhou, another city in Fujian, plays a role in these historical ties through the Maritime Silk Road, an ancient sea trade route. The Zhangzhou Museum features relics from this era, celebrating the cultural exchanges that contributed to early modern globalization.

These historical connections, from Rizal's ancestry to the Maritime Silk Road, underscore a shared history and cultural exchange that continue to influence the relationship between the Philippines and China.