The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) is optimistic about the Philippine economy, forecasting growth of 6% to 7% in 2023, citing positive macroeconomic factors and economic recoveries in ASEAN and China. The announcement was made during the FFCCCII’s biennial national convention, which brought together 800 business leaders and delegates from Filipino Chinese chambers across the country. The convention, themed “Unity for Development & Prosperity,” was the first in four years due to the global pandemic.
The convention’s opening ceremony featured President Bongbong Marcos as guest of honor and speaker, and the luncheon was hosted by BDO Unibank, SM Investment Corp., and China Bank. The late SM Group founder Henry Sy, Sr. was one of the most respected leaders of the Filipino Chinese business community and was Senior Executive Adviser of the FFCCCII.
Outgoing FFCCCII President Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong, who is CEO of Sterling Paper Group and founder of hybrid rice pioneer SL Agritech, delivered a welcome speech at the convention. He thanked FFCCCII officers and members for their support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted the organization’s contributions to relief efforts and health programs.
FFCCCII was the lead organization in the Filipino Chinese Community Calamity Fund, which raised and donated P300 million worth of relief supplies, including medical goods and food, to those affected by the pandemic and natural disasters.
Despite the pandemic, FFCCCII continued to prioritize its flagship program, “Operation: Barrio Schools,” which constructs school buildings across the country. Since its inception in 1961, the program has built over 6,000 two-classroom school buildings or equivalent to 12,148 classrooms. The organization is currently constructing over 480 school buildings.
In his speech, Dr. Liong emphasized the importance of unity in achieving development and prosperity. He also highlighted the FFCCCII’s efforts to promote sustainable business practices, including the adoption of eco-friendly technologies and the promotion of circular economy principles.
The convention included presentations on various topics, such as digital transformation, international trade, and sustainable development. It also featured a new pledging session for “Operation: Barrio Schools” and the election of new FFCCCII officers.
FFCCCII Chairman Emeritus Dr. Lucio C. Tan of the LT Group, Inc. was also in attendance at the convention. The LT Group is involved in various industries, including banking, airlines, breweries, and distilleries.
Overall, the FFCCCII’s biennial national convention served as a platform for Filipino Chinese business leaders to come together, share ideas, and reaffirm their commitment to promoting economic growth and sustainable development in the Philippines.#
(Jehan Prochina/Tuklasin Natin)
