spot_img
24.6 C
Philippines
Thursday, February 27, 2025
24.6 C
Philippines
Thursday, February 27, 2025

Federation of Filipino Chinese honors outstanding personalities

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes and 18 seconds
16px

The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) hosted its Chinese New Year Dinner Reception and Awards Ceremony on Jan. 29 at Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant in Pasay City. The event celebrated the cultural significance of the Lunar New Year while recognizing seven distinguished Filipinos for their exceptional contributions to society.

The honorees were recognized for enriching the cultural, social, and economic ties between the Philippines and China, with a particular focus on how Filipino Chinese individuals have played a key role in the country’s development. The recognition also underscored the values of excellence, philanthropy, and unity and highlighted the importance of cultural exchange as the Filipino Chinese community continues to contribute to the Philippines’ growth.

- Advertisement -

Among the awardees was former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, recognized for her instrumental role in establishing diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China in 1975 with her late husband, President Ferdinand E. Marcos. Senator Imee Marcos, representing her mother, spoke about the Chinese roots of the Marcos family, further strengthening the historical bond between the two nations.

National Artist Ricky Lee is recognized for his enduring impact on Philippine cinema

National Artist Ricky Lee was honored for his long-standing influence in Philippine cinema. Lee, the 2024 MMFF Best Screenplay award winner for Green Bones, was acknowledged for his contributions as a scriptwriter, playwright, novelist, and educator. His late father, Lee Hian Chin, who served as Secretary General of the Camarines Norte Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce, was also recognized for his contributions to the Filipino Chinese community.

Award-winning journalist Jessica Soho received recognition for her integrity and excellence in journalism. Soho’s recent documentary, tracing her family’s ancestral roots in Guangdong, China, exemplified her commitment to storytelling and cultural discovery.

Designer Kenneth Cobonpue was honored for his groundbreaking work in global industrial design. Cobonpue has been instrumental in elevating Philippine craftsmanship through his innovative furniture designs, earning international recognition for the country’s design industry.

Senator Imee Marcos (third from right) represents her mother, Imelda Marcos,
for the award

The FFCCCII, led by president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, is an umbrella organization representing 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce across the Philippines, from Aparri to Tawi Tawi. The federation continues its legacy of supporting various socio-civic initiatives, such as donating to rural public schools, aiding Filipino Chinese volunteer fire brigades, promoting Philippine economic growth, and strengthening Philippines-China relations.

This year’s celebration also coincided with the beginning of the 50th anniversary of Philippines-China diplomatic relations, which will be commemorated on June 5.

The event also highlights the growing global appreciation for Chinese traditions, evident in the UN’s recognition of the Spring Festival and its celebration across many countries, including Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, North America, Japan, Europe, and Latin America.

LATEST NEWS

Popular Articles