Representatives from China and the Philippines attend a groundbreaking ceremony in Davao City, the Philippines, May 10, 2018. Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte held the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday for a China-funded new water pumping station in Davao City. The construction of the water pumping station will give 3,000 families in the Buhangin District access to clean and safe drinking water, according to Duterte, daughter of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. (Xinhua/Dong Chenwen)

MANILA, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte held a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday for a China-funded new water pumping station in Davao City.

The construction of a water pumping station in the village of Callawa in Davao City will give 3,000 families in the Buhangin District access to clean and safe drinking water, according to Duterte, daughter of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

"This project is a valuable addition to the environmental management initiatives of the local government as we gear up in ensuring a clean and green landscape for the city and in ensuring that pure water flow in the pipes of our homes," Duterte said.

Although this water pumping station in Callawa is but a small project, Zhao said, "it stands testimony to China's sincere commitment in helping Davao region achieve a balanced and sustainable growth."

"In the future, China is also willing to continue to share with our Filipino friends the experience in terms of rural development and poverty relief," Zhao said.

Zhao said securing a supply of clean drinking water not only caters to daily household necessities, but also bears great significance in improving the well-beings of the people in mountainous region of Davao.

"A friend in need is a friend indeed. China has always been committed to playing its due role in Davao's endeavor to pursue economic development and people's welfare," Zhao said.