US citizen in Manila, PI needing China visa

I have been traveling for 5 months in SE Asia, spending most of my time in Manila, Philippines with my wife's parents. The travel agent told them that I have to apply in the US, but I can't trust all the info I get from people here. Any knowledge about this? I need to be in China for 2 months to train with my tai chi instructor. I will be visiting the Chinese Embassy here on Monday. Thanks.