FFCCCII upholds over 1,000-year-old legacy of commerce, philanthropy and progress
For over 1,000 years, the relationship between the Philippines and ethnic Chinese entrepreneurs has consistently been defined by trade, cultural exchange, social harmony and mutual growth.
In this 21st century, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) stands as a testament to this enduring legacy, celebrating the new Chinese New Year of the Fire Horse by reaffirming a commitment to furthering economic and social progress in the Philippines through entrepreneurship and charities. Among the top goals include championing sustainable and inclusive Philippine economic growth which shall result in poverty alleviation; expanding and uplifting the middle class; helping micro, small and medium-scale enterprises.
FFCCCII officials are led by philanthropist and industrialist Victor Lim as President. He personally and repeatedly articulated FFCCCII socio-civic and economic reform advocacies, which express the unique and dynamic identity of Filipinos of Chinese heritage committed to help Philippine economic and social development.
Trade and philanthropy – commerce and charities
Beyond dynamic commerce, the FFCCCII and its 170 Filipino Chinese chambers nationwide have been at the forefront of philanthropy and diverse charities in accordance to traditional Confucian moral values of 仁 (pronounced “ren” in Mandarin or “jin” in Hokkien) meaning benevolence or humaneness and 义 (pronounced “yi” in Mandarin or “gi” in Hokkien) meaning “righteousness”.
These diverse charities contribute to the well-being of Filipino communities in all regions of the Philippines for generations. FFCCCII’s dedication to sustaining this harmonious blend of doing business and contributing to charities highlights its deep understanding of the essential interconnectedness of economic success and social welfare.
Nurturing a globally competitive economy and promoting economic diplomacy
In its over seven decades of existence, FFCCCII has consistently championed efforts to elevate the Philippines into a globally competitive economy. Through strategic partnerships, innovative business approaches, promoting high productivity and a commitment to excellence, the federation hopes to help uplift the Filipino nation on the international economic stage.
As part of its efforts to promote economic diplomacy with all countries like its Asean neighbors, China, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, the US, EU, etc., during its conferences and projects, FFCCCII has invited many foreign business delegations from different continents to visit the Philippines.
This year, the FFCCCII is committed to host the Asean Chinese Business Leaders Summit in the Philippines, in order to woo Southeast Asian and other Asia ethnic Chinese business tycoons to consider the country as an investment and tourist destination.
A catalyst for sustainable and inclusive economic growth
Embracing the principles of sustainability, FFCCCII has always actively promoted inclusive economic growth. By fostering initiatives that benefit a wide spectrum of society, the federation underscores the belief that true economic progress is achieved when no one is left behind in sharing the benefits of Philippine economic growth.
This isn’t just motivated by Confucian altruism, but also a belief based on the logic that the country needs to uplift the income of the majority of the people in order to expand the market for goods and services, also in order to ensure long-term social stability.
Advocacy beyond business – socio-civic and philanthropy
FFCCCII’s initiatives extend far beyond boardrooms, reaching into the heart of socio-civic and philanthropic causes. Through various initiatives, the organization has demonstrated a commitment to addressing societal needs of the whole Philippines. FFCCCII entrepreneurs are majority full-pledged Filipino citizens with Chinese heritage, with all members contributing to social development of the Philippines.
FFCCCII Operation Barrio Schools: Donating 6,500 public school buildings
One of the diverse civic projects of the FFCCCII is the Operation Barrio Schools, which started in the 1960s. It has encouraged Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs to donate public school buildings in economically disadvantaged and mostly far-flung rural areas throughout the Philippines.
“Education is the most powerful tool for social upliftment,” said FFCCCII president Lim. “Operation Barrio Schools reflects our enduring commitment to the Filipino youth. Through these classrooms, we are not only building structures, but also empowering future generations with the gift of learning and opportunity.”
The country’s biggest philanthropic project of its kind, through its Operation Barrio Schools, the federation’s remarkable contribution of 6,500 public school buildings stands as a tangible testament to its dedication to providing good quality public education for all the Filipino youth.
Volunteerism in action – Filipino Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades
In times of crisis through past decades, FFCCCII has proven that volunteerism knows no bounds. By supporting Filipino Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades nationwide, the federation has demonstrated a commitment to community safety and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Filipino Chinese community’s unique volunteer fire brigades assist all victims of fires and other calamities in the Philippines regardless of their ethnic or socio-economic backgrounds.
Calamity relief efforts – A helping hand in troubled times
FFCCCII’s philanthropic spirit shines brightly in times of calamity. Through generous donations and strategic relief efforts, the organization galvanizes Filipino Chinese community donations and stands shoulder to shoulder with all Filipinos during their challenging moments like typhoons, floods or other disasters, pro-actively providing a helping hand when it is needed most.
Advocating socio-economic reforms
FFCCCII recognizes that true progress of the Philippines involves continuously advocating for meaningful socio-economic reforms. Through collaborative efforts of the government and with various sectors, the federation works towards creating a conducive environment for sustainable development, ensuring lasting benefits for all sectors of the Filipino nation.
******
Get real-time news updates: inqnews.net/inqviber
