For over a millennium, the bond between the Philippines and its ethnic Chinese community has been defined by trade, cultural exchange, and mutual growth. Today, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) carries this legacy forward, celebrating the Chinese New Year with a renewed commitment to the Philippines’ economic and social progress. Under the leadership of philanthropist and industrialist Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, the FFCCCII embodies the spirit of its theme, “Dugong Tsino, Pusong Pinoy”—Chinese blood, Filipino heart.
A Thousand-Year Legacy of Trade and Benevolence
The Filipino Chinese community has long been a pillar of the Philippines’ economic and social fabric for generations. Rooted in Confucian values of ren (benevolence) and yi (righteousness), the FFCCCII and its 170 member chambers nationwide have seamlessly blended commerce with charity. For generations, they have supported initiatives that uplift Filipino communities, proving that economic success and social welfare are deeply interconnected.
“Our mission is not just about business,” says Dr. Pedro. “It’s about creating a better future for all Filipinos, especially those in need.”
Hope of Building a Globally Competitive Philippines
Through the decades, the FFCCCII has been a persevering driving force in helping position the Philippines as a globally competitive economy. Through strategic partnerships, innovative business practices, lobbying for reforms and a focus on productivity, the federation has helped elevate the country’s standing on the international stage.
In good times or even in trying times, the FFCCCII has always invited foreign business delegations from ASEAN, China, South Korea, Japan, the US, and Europe to explore opportunities in the Philippines. This initiative underscores the federation’s commitment to economic diplomacy and its vision of a prosperous, interconnected Philippines.
Operation Barrio Schools: Better Education to overcome Poverty
One of the FFCCCII’s most remarkable achievements is its “Operation Barrio Schools” civic project, which began in the 1960s. This initiative has encouraged Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs from big corporations or SMEs to donate over 6,300 public school buildings in economically disadvantaged and remote areas across the country.
“Education is the foundation of social and economic progress,” says Dr. Pedro. “By building public schools as donations, we are investing in the future of the Filipino youth.”
This unparalleled philanthropic effort has provided countless children with access to quality education, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and contribute to the nation’s development. The late FFCCCII president Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong estimated that millions of rural Filipino kids have benefited from “Operation Barrio Schools” in the past six decades.
Volunteerism in Action: Fire Brigades and Calamity Relief
The FFCCCII’s commitment to service extends beyond education. For decades, the federation has supported Filipino Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades, which provide critical assistance during fires and other emergencies. These brigades serve all Filipinos, regardless of ethnicity or socio-economic status, embodying the traditional spirit of bayanihan (community unity and solidarity).
In times of calamity, the FFCCCII has also been a source of hope. From typhoons to earthquakes, the federation has efficiently mobilized resources and relief efforts to help affected communities rebuild and recover.
Advocating for Inclusive Growth and Reforms
The FFCCCII recognizes that sustainable progress requires meaningful socio-economic reforms. At the 2024 Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) Prospects Forum, Dr. Pedro outlined 12 key reforms needed for inclusive growth, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government. These proposals were reported as front page news and in editorials by the media.
“True progress is achieved when no one is left behind,” Dr. Pedro said. “We must work together to create a future where every Filipino can thrive.”
A Legacy of Heart and Hope
As the FFCCCII joins the Filipino nation in welcoming the New Year of the Snake, it remains steadfast in its mission to serve the community and the whole Philippines. Guided by the principle of “Dugong Tsino, Pusong Pinoy,” the federation continues to champion economic prosperity, social welfare, and national unity.
Through its unwavering dedication to enlightened entrepreneurship, charity, and community service, the FFCCCII is not just preserving a thousand-year legacy—it is building a brighter future for the Philippines, one school, one fire brigade, and one act of kindness at a time.
In the words of Dr. Pedro, “Our Chinese heritage is our roots, but our Filipino heart is our soul. Together, we can achieve greatness for our beloved Philippines.”
ADVT.
This article is brought to you by FFCCCII.
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