I am sure you'll be able to get few more such discussion threads...
The central point what i understood from all these discussions is that to obtain a PCC from china, you need the help of some agency (Yes, there are some agencies there who do this for a fee) or a friend/colleague who can apply on your behalf otherwise it is very difficult to get.
Where did you lived in China? Most of agencies only cover Beijing or Shanghai. I was in Shenzhen and found one agency can do it, but they ask for 800usd... anyway you can use this email to explain CIC you can't spend 800usd to get a PCC..