A legacy of commerce, philanthropy, progress
FOR over 1,000 years, the relationship between the Philippines and ethnic Chinese entrepreneurs HAS CONSISTENTLY BEEN DEfiNED BY TRADE, CULTURAL exchange, social harmony and mutual growth.
In the 21st century, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) stands as a testament to this enduring legacy, celebrating its 70th anniversary by reaffirming a commitment to furthering economic and social progress in the Philippines through entrepreneurship and charities.
FFCCCII officials are led by philanthropist and industrialist Cecilio Pedro as president. He has personally coined the anniversary theme, “Dugong Tsino, pusong Pinoy (Chinese by blood, Filipino by heart),” which expresses the unique identity of Filipinos with Chinese heritage, committed to help Philippine economic and social development.
Commerce and charities
Beyond dynamic commerce, the FFCCCII and its 170 Filipino Chinese chambers nationwide have been at the forefront of philanthropy and diverse charities in accordance to traditional Confucian moral values of ren in Mandarin or jin in Hokkien, meaning benevolence or humaneness and yi in Mandarin or gi in Hokkien, meaning righteousness.
These diverse charities contribute to the well-being of Filipino communities in all regions of the Philippines for generations. The organization’s dedication to sustaining this harmonious blend highlights its deep understanding of the essential interconnectedness of economic success and social welfare.
Nurturing a globally competitive economy and promoting economic diplomacy
In its 7 decades of existence, FFCCCII has consistently championed efforts to elevate the Philippines into a globally competitive economy. Through strategic partnerships, innovative business approaches, high productivity and commitment to excellence, the federation hopes to help uplift the Filipino nation on the international economic stage.
As part of its efforts to promote economic diplomacy with other countries, FFCCCII has invited many foreign business delegations from different continents to visit the Philippines during its 70thanniversary celebration.
A catalyst for sustainable and inclusive economic growth
Embracing the principles of sustainability, FFCCCII has actively promoted inclusive economic growth. By fostering initiatives that benefit a wide spectrum of society, the federation underscores the belief that true economic progress is achieved when no one is left behind.
Advocacy beyond business
The FFCCCII’s initiatives extend far beyond boardrooms, reaching into the heart of socio-civic and philanthropic causes.
Through various initiatives, the organization has demonstrated a commitment to addressing societal needs of the Philippines, embodying the spirit of its 70th anniversary theme, “Dugong Tsino, pusong Pinoy.”
Operation Barrio Schools
One of the diverse civic projects of the FFCCCII is the Operation Barrio Schools, which started in the 1960s, encouraging Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs to donate public school buildings in economically disadvantaged and mostly far-flung rural areas of the Philippines.
The country’s biggest philanthropic project of its kind, the federation’s remarkable contribution of 6,200 public school buildings stands as a tangible testament to its dedication to providing good quality public education for the Filipino youth.