Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) vice president and supervisor for the culture and education group Co Kin Hung visited several Filipino Chinese schools in Cebu and Iloilo, including Sacred Heart School Ateneo de Cebu, Cebu Cherish School, Cebu Eastern College, First Chinese Royal Academy, Iloilo Scholastic Academy, Ateneo de Iloilo and Hua Siong College of Iloilo. He also attended the 100th anniversary celebration of Iloilo Sun Yat Sen High School from Nov. 6 to 7, 2025.
Co held seminars with school staff and Chinese teachers to understand their operational situations, teaching and learning needs.
He expressed high regard for their perseverance in running schools amid natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons. He encouraged them to maintain enthusiasm for education, overcome difficulties and steadily advance their teaching efforts.
In his exchanges with school representatives, Co cited the importance of digital smart teaching equipment in enhancing classroom quality.
He announced that FFCCCII has launched an Electronic Interactive Screen Donation Pilot Program. He also introduced various educational support initiatives such as the Medical Allowance for Teachers and the Allowance for Lost Filipino Chinese Students. He welcomed teachers and students in need of assistance to apply for these welfare programs.
Co shared insights from FFCCCII’s recent research trip to Malaysia in August, where Filipino Chinese school principals, delegates and representatives from the board of directors, alumni association as well as students, parents and teachers associations held coordinated discussions.
He said the three-party coordination mechanism has played a vital role in the steady development of Chinese schools in Malaysia.
He suggested that Filipino Chinese schools could learn from this model.
Co pointed out that “Circular Development” is key to the long-term survival of Chinese schools. He explained that as students grow into alumni, and eventually become parents and successful members of society who develop a strong sense of gratitude, love for their schools and identity within the Chinese community, Filipino Chinese schools can foster a virtuous cycle of development and long-term vitality.
