Heart of charity: Filipino Chinese community aids Tondo fire victims
In the long tradition of generations of Filipino Chinese community philanthropy, a spirit of solidarity shines brightly as they extend a loving hand to those in need. On Dec. 3, 2024, the Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation, spearheaded by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), led by its president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, set a powerful example of community compassion. Their officers and volunteers personally distributed thousands of rice packs and clothing to fire victims in Isla Puting Bato, a neighborhood in Tondo district, Manila City.
This heartfelt initiative is just one chapter in a remarkable story of resilience, community solidarity and generosity.
Recent calamities, including a series of six big typhoons, left many communities flooded and devastated across the Bicol region, Metro Manila cities and several provinces reeling, prompting this multi-sectoral foundation to rally support and donations from Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs of big or MSME companies and professionals.
In an impressive show of solidarity, the Filipino at Tsino Foundation has contributed more than P60 million in essential supplies, including rice packs, sardines, noodles, and other relief goods to flood-affected areas, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities of fellow Filipinos.
The Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation unites 30 prominent Filipino Chinese business, civic, and cultural federations. Together, these umbrella organizations embody a multi-sectoral and proactive approach to philanthropy, responding to crises with compassion and purpose.
Among the notable allies in these diverse civic endeavors is none other than beloved Filipino singer and songwriter Jose Mari Chan, affectionately known as the “Mr. Christmas Carols” of the Philippines. Himself a member of the Filipino Chinese community and whose late father was self-made immigrant business leader Antonio Chan. In a touching acknowledgement, the FFCCCII expressed gratitude for Chan’s steadfast support of various socio-civic and philanthropic projects, all of which contribute to the nation’s development and promote inclusive economic progress. In a recent video Jose Mari Chan shot with FFCCCII, he said that the Filipino Chinese community is an integral part of the Filipino nation and that they are also fellow Filipinos in citizenship, in civic spirit and in solidarity with the country’s needs and future.
Among the highlights of FFCCCII’s numerous meaningful philanthropic projects include the groundbreaking “Operation Barrio Schools,” which has successfully constructed and donated over 6,000 rural public school buildings throughout the most economically disadvantaged barrios of the country. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to uplifting public education and empowerment of the Filipino youth, creating safe spaces for learning in underserved areas and promoting educational opportunities to alleviate rural poverty.
Additionally, the FFCCCII supports various Filipino Chinese volunteer fire brigades composed of idealistic entrepreneurs and professionals of the community who selflessly and courageously provide aid to victims of fires and other disasters regardless of their ethnic or socio-economic backgrounds.
In moments of crisis, the Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation and the FFCCCII extend assistance, showcasing that unity and compassion remain at the forefront of their mission. As they continue to dispatch emergency rice and relief supplies to those affected by calamities, the essence of civic spirit is reaffirmed—one of standing together in adversity, helping others rise again in the hope of ensuring Philippine progress.
In a world often divided, the actions of the Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation and the FFCCCII remind us that the spirit of giving knows no bounds, transcending race, culture, and socio-economic status. Each rice pack, each sardine or noodle gift, every article of clothing handed out is more than just a donation; it is a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a testament to the enduring power of community support.
