Prominent Filipino-Chinese trade associations and city officials convened on Feb. 2, 2026 to launch a legal awareness campaign aimed at protecting local entrepreneurs from extortion and regulatory pitfalls.
The forum, titled “Understanding the Law: The Best Protection for Your Business,” addressed a rise in criminal activity involving individuals impersonating law enforcement officers to extort money from business owners.
More than 100 entrepreneurs attended the event, which was organized by groups including the Philippine Chinese Commerce and Industry Overseas Association Inc. and the Filipino-Chinese Baclaran United Commerce Foundation Inc. in coordination with Manila District 3 Councilor Jefferson Lau.
Rolando Delfin of the Manila City Hall Office of the Legal Officer served as the keynote speaker, detailing specific municipal ordinances governing commercial operations.
Delfin said that strict adherence to the letter of the law serves as the most effective shield against both criminal exploitation and administrative penalties.
“Adherence is the best way to avoid business risks,” Delfin said, urging the community to maintain transparent operations.
Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. vice president Delfin Letran said the initiative was designed to help businessmen identify illegal activities and strengthen their capacity for self-protection.
He said the best way to protect business rights is through compliance with existing laws and regulations.
The briefing comes amid a tightening of enforcement across Metro Manila. Letran highlighted recent Bureau of Immigration actions that led to the arrest of more than 60 foreigners, including 14 Chinese nationals, for visa violations.
He reminded the assembly that foreigners should hold valid documents and that those without specific work or investment visas are prohibited from engaging in retail or business operations.
“Those without work visas should not engage in employment, particularly in retail; likewise, those without investment visas should not operate related businesses,” Letran said.
He appealed to recent immigrants to respect and understand Philippine laws to improve the collective image of the overseas Chinese community.
To provide practical support, organizers distributed a bilingual business protection card in Chinese and English.
The card outlines standard inspection procedures and advises owners to take 3 specific steps when approached by inspectors: verify official identification, request written authorization and document the entire interaction.
