The Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) held its 34th Biennial Convention with the theme “Technology, Innovation, Entrepreneurship: Key to Prosperity” from April 3 to 6, 2025.
Over 170 local Filipino-Chinese business chambers and associations, as well as government officials, diplomats, and leaders of the Filipino-Chinese community attended the event.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Presidential Special Envoy to China for Trade, Investment, and Tourism Affairs Benito Techico, Senators Mark Villar and JV Ejercito, Pasay Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, BDO Unibank chairperson Teresita Sy Coson and other prominent figures from various sectors were present during the opening ceremony on April 3, 2025.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lauded FFCCCII for its invaluable contributions to the country’s social and economic development over the past 71 years.
He highlighted the organization’s significant role in fostering cultural integrity and encouraged FFCCCII to continue playing a leading role in achieving the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision for the nation’s future.
Vice President Sara Duterte sent a message of congratulations and emphasized the crucial role of technology and innovation in strengthening the country’s economic resilience.
She commended FFCCCII for its Rural Schoolroom Building Project and urged the organization to continue its efforts in supporting Filipino entrepreneurs and communities.
FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro delivered welcome remarks and reflected on the organization’s accomplishments over the past two years.
He highlighted key achievements, including initiatives aimed at empowering Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs and contributing to national economic development.
FFCCCII’s 2024 motto, “Dugong Tsino, Pusong Pinoy” (Chinese Blood, Filipino Heart), reflects the federation’s mission of both business growth and helping the community, a tradition they’ve followed for over seventy years. Michael Wong Ho
At the 2024 FOCAP Prospects Forum, FFCCCII shared 12 key reforms focused on creating jobs, modernizing agriculture, and improving infrastructure to ensure long-term stability.
To address global challenges like trade barriers and supply chain issues, FFCCCII pushes for strategies to strengthen the Philippine economy. These include supporting local industries through the “Buy Pinoy” movement, which aims to reduce the need for imports.
It also seeks to improve trade with ASEAN, China, Japan, South Korea, the US, and the EU, while exploring new markets.
FFCCCII encourages digital transformation to improve business efficiency and competitiveness, and calls for policy changes to make business processes easier, attract more investments, and help small businesses.
The “Buy Pinoy” movement specifically focuses on strengthening local industries and reducing reliance on imports.
A dinner party was held on April 4, where Speaker of the House Martin Romualdez addressed attendees.
“As Speaker of the House, I assure you of our continued support. Together with President Marcos, we will continue to work hand-in-hand with the private sector to create the conditions for inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-led growth,” Romualdez stated.
He praised the Filipino-Chinese community for its tireless efforts and underscored their integral role in the country’s sustainable and inclusive growth.
“Your hard work is helping build a better, stronger, and more united Philippines,” he added..
The third meeting took place on April 5, with a luncheon hosted by Metrobank & Affiliates at the East Ocean Palace.
Chinese Embassy officials, including Charge d’Affaires Minister Counselor Zhou Zhiyong, Counselor and Consul General Wang Yue, and Consul Shi Weijan, were in attendance.
In his speech, Zhou recognized FFCCCII’s vital role in promoting unity and cooperation among Filipino-Chinese business groups, integrating overseas Chinese into mainstream society, and protecting the rights and interests of overseas Chinese for more than 70 years.
Plaques of recognition were presented to honorary presidents and directors who have served for over 30 years.
Following the recognition, an election was held, and 188 new council members were elected.
The oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected 35th council members took place at the Federation Building on April 6.