Technology, innovation and entrepreneurship: Keys to prosperity at FFCCCII’s 34th Biennial National Convention

INQUIRER.net BrandRoom / 09:00 AM April 04, 2025

The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) is hosting its 34th Biennial National Convention from April 3 to 6, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center, uniting over 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce and business associations nationwide—from Aparri to Tawi-Tawi.

With the theme “Technology, Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Keys to Prosperity,” the convention spotlights the transformative power of modernization, creativity, and enterprise in driving the Philippines’ economic future.

A millennium of trade, harmony, and nation-building

For over 1,000 years, the Filipino Chinese community has been integral to Philippine progress through:

* Trade and cultural exchange

* Social harmony and mutual growth

* A legacy of philanthropy and nation-building

For over seven decades, the FFCCCII continued this tradition under its president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, a visionary industrialist and philanthropist. He coined the 2024 FFCCCII 70th Anniversary motto, “Dugong Tsino, Pusong Pinoy” (Chinese Blood, Filipino Heart), reflecting the community’s unwavering dedication to the country’s prosperity.

FFCCCII chapter Mandaue Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce donated three-storey public schoolbuilding to Tingub Elementary School in Mandaue City, Cebu province.

Commerce with compassion: FFCCCII’s dual mission

Guided by Confucian values of benevolence (仁 “ren”) and righteousness (义 “yi”), the Federation blends business leadership with social impact:

Transformative contributions

Operation Barrio Schools – The largest philanthropic initiative of its kind in the Philippines with more than 6,500 public school buildings constructed and donated nationwide, empowering underserved communities and democratizing educational opportunities.
Filipino Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades nationwide – Providing lifesaving emergency response to all, regardless of race or status.
Calamity Relief Efforts – Rapid mobilization of aid direct to affected communities for typhoons, floods, and disasters.
Advocacy for Inclusive Growth – Championing policies that uplift Filipinos in education, health, and livelihoods.

FFCCCII champions education by donating school buildings through Operation Barrio Schools. Here, FFCCCII President Dr. Cecilio Pedro leads turnover rites.

FFCCCII Medical Mission in Rizal province

Building a globally competitive Philippines

The FFCCCII drives progress through:

* Boosting trade, tourism, and investments with ASEAN, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, the US, EU and other regions.

* Advancing innovation and technology to strengthen local industries and agriculture.

* Campaigning for policy reforms to improve ease of doing business, reduce red tape, minimize inefficiencies and support domestic manufacturing (via its “Buy Pinoy” movement).

* Expanding Philippine exports and tourism as engines of development.

FFCCCII and Bohol Filipino Chinese Chamber conduct disaster relief aid to typhoon victims in Trinidad town, Bohol province.

FFCCCII and Bohol Filipino Chinese Chamber sent typhoon relief aid to Inabanga town, Bohol province.

FFCCCII and Bohol Filipino Chinese Chamber sent typhoon relief aid to Loon & Tubigon towns in Bohol province.

At the 2024 FOCAP Prospects Forum, Dr. Pedro outlined 12 key socio-economic reforms, reflecting the Filipino Chinese business community’s vision for a more equitable and dynamic economy.

Support FFCCCII in its goals and vision for a better Philippines