THE Awards for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (Appcu 2024) has now received 11 nominations from across the country as organizers reset the deadline to April 21, 2024.

According to Appcu Co-Chairman Peter Tiu Lavina, the organizing Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) and the People's Republic of China Embassy in Manila decided to extend the deadline due to the recent series of holidays.

The nomination process started on March 11 and was supposed to close on April 15.

"We have so far received 11 nominations from all over the country, and our researchers are now doing background checks," Lavina said.

Not eligible for nominations are incumbent high public officials and officers of APCU.

Now in its fourth year, this search is for Filipinos with outstanding and meritorious work in promoting understanding, friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and China.

The awards were initiated by former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in 2021.

Lavina said Appcu has become a major national project with its awarding ceremony, now a main event in the celebration of the establishment of diplomatic ties during the week of June 9.

This year's award rites will be held on June 7, 2024, at the Manila Hotel.