Mr.joe, For first time applicants to China (Philippine passport holders, 18 years old and above), you have to provide lots of requirements, it is hard to get visa in China or HK, please apply for it in Philippines:
For first time applicants to China (Philippine passport holders, 18 years old and above), they are required to provide the following:

a) original NBI clearance valid for travel abroad

b) original bank certificate with receipt or original passbook, updated within the month that you are applying or....

- If a company will sponsor the trip, provide the company's bank certificate, sponsorship letter from the company and the company's business registration.

- If an individual will sponsor the trip, provide his bank certificate, sponsorship and invitation letter, copy of sponsor's valid residence visa and passport information page or Chinese national ID.

c) for employed persons, also provide an employment certificate, company ID, SSS ID and contributions, TIN ID and latest ITR

d) for students, provide school ID

e) for businessmen, provide business registration of company, TIN ID and latest ITR

f) Personal appearance is required for those who are 16-21 years old.