From left: FFCCCII EVP Victor Lim, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro and FFCCCII honorary president Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong in Malacañan Palace with the scale model of FFCCCII public schools for donation nationwide. PHOTO BY KJ ROSALES, PPA POOL
The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) held its momentous oath-taking ceremony for its new officers last June 7 at the Malacañan Palace. During the event, the organization showcased its unwavering commitment to bolstering progressive economic advocacy and fostering cultural and socio-civic endeavors across the nation.
In his speech, FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro acknowledged the honor of taking the oath before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who graced the event. Pedro emphasized the federation’s dedication to supporting the government’s pursuit of a stronger Philippine economy.
As the national umbrella organization with 170 members across the nation, the FFCCCII serves as the authoritative voice of the Filipino Chinese business community.
“We commit ourselves to the FFCCCII and to serving our country through our businesses and the work we do in our communities as servant leaders, placing the good of our nation and people first,” Pedro said during his speech.
“As the voice of the Filipino Chinese business community, the federation will continue to play an active role in promoting the competitiveness of Philippine industries and businesses,” he said.
Driven by their mission to advance the competitiveness of local industries and businesses, Pedro outlined the federation’s top priorities in the coming years.
At the forefront of their agenda is the pivotal role of digitalization in propelling the nation forward. Recognizing the global landscape’s demands, the FFCCCII champions the “Exponential Adaptation on Digitalization” approach to revolutionize all aspects of life and ensure global competitiveness for the country.
Leveraging the collective strength of its member organizations nationwide, the Federation aims to assist Filipino companies in establishing and maintaining a competitive digital advantage in the global economy.
Furthermore, the FFCCCII commits to collaborating with the government to streamline business processes and enhance the investment climate. By championing campaigns that facilitate ease of doing business, the Federation aims to attract more investments, generating crucial employment opportunities and economic growth for the Filipino people.
Pedro applauded the government’s initiative in establishing “Green Lanes” within government offices, which significantly speeds up the investment licensing and permit acquisition process.
Addressing a critical concern, the FFCCCII voiced its support for the development of a robust and sustainable energy sector.
“We support advocacies for the development of a viable energy sector to address the energy supply problem that concerns both businesses and the populace. Our country’s electricity rate is one of the highest in Southeast Asia, and this turns off prospective investors. Our country is rich in natural resources that can generate lower-cost renewable energy to provide stable and cheaper energy to all the islands of our nation,” Pedro said.
FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro reaffirms the Filipino Chinese community’s support for Philippine economic development and social progress in his speech at Malacanang Palace.
By providing stable and cheaper energy solutions, the Philippines can foster a favorable environment for businesses and improve the lives of its citizens.
While advancing economic progress remains a central objective, Pedro reiterated the FFCCCII’s unwavering commitment to social welfare projects that benefit Filipino communities. The Federation’s efforts encompass disaster response, healthcare medical missions, and Operation: Barrio Schools, their flagship program that focuses on education.
Moreover, during the FFCCCII Convention held earlier this year from March 23 to 26, members and officers pledged 300 units of two-classroom school buildings, equivalent to 600 classrooms. These structures are slated for construction and subsequent turnover to public schools within the next two years, underscoring the Federation’s dedication to education and nation-building.
Expressing gratitude to the national government for the trust and confidence given to them, Pedro assured that the FFCCCII would remain a dependable partner in the pursuit of national progress and development.
Pedro said: “We will remain a steadfast government partner for national progress and development. In all our efforts, we place our trust in the Lord that He will provide us guidance as we endeavor to contribute to the well-being of the nation and its people.”