A delegation from the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) led by president Victor Lim paid a courtesy visit to the Department of National Defense (DND) on July 2, 2025.
The group included honorary president Dr. Cecilio Pedro, executive vice president Jeffrey Ng, vice presidents William Gosiaco, David Chua, Antony Chan and Reynold Siy and other FFCCCII officials.
The delegation was warmly received by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Undersecretary Irineo Espino and Undersecretary Donato Madriaga.
Lim introduced the newly elected officers of FFCCCII and highlighted the federation’s flagship programs and ongoing projects.
Teodoro acknowledged FFCCCII’s long-standing role in nation-building, particularly its donation of numerous classrooms in rural areas and its collaboration with the DND on various civic projects.
He said a significant portion of the DND budget is allocated to disaster preparedness and relief operations. He noted that the DND also oversees the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and plays a key role in the relocation of homeless communities.
Lim said that FFCCCII could coordinate with its provincial chamber members to explore potential relocation sites to assist in this effort.
FFCCCII foreign affairs committee vice director Lu Cui Shun offered logistical support, adding that their company operates several barges that could be used to transport aid when needed.
Both parties also discussed the proposal to recognize Hokkien as a native Philippine dialect through the Commission on the Filipino Language.
Teodoro supported the initiative, acknowledging that Hokkien is widely spoken within the Filipino-Chinese community and that many Hokkien words have been integrated into the Filipino language.
He noted that recognizing Hokkien would symbolize the integration of the Filipino-Chinese community into mainstream Philippine society.
FFCCCII also proposed to lower electricity costs through the potential development of nuclear power in the country.
