Duterte thanks Filipino-Chinese businessmen for supporting him

March 21, 2019

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday thanked the Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) for their support for his administration as they held their 32nd biennial convention.

In a speech in Pasay City, Duterte acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Chinese-Filipino community for devoting their resources for the “greater economy, social and cultural development of the country”.

“The  Federation has consistently played a vital role in ushering a period of greater cooperation [and] understanding not only in the promotion of business and trade, but also in facing various challenges that we face as a nation,” he said.

Duterte said for more than six years the organization spearheaded various initiatives that sought to improve the well-being of people, especially the youth and the less privileged.

“Your disaster relief efforts, medical missions and other interventions during calamities, and the construction of thousands of school buildings, classrooms and rehabilitation facilities are a testament to your selflessness and commitment to give back to the community,” Duterte said.

Duterte hoped the organization will be inspired to pursue greater collaboration among their members as they gathered for the convention.

He hoped they remain committed to help other people through their charitable works.

“Let me take this opportunity to thank you for your support of this administration’s fight against the scourge of corruption, criminality and illegal drugs. Through your deeds, you have become our important partner in building the foundations of a more inclusive and sustainable society,” said Duterte.

“Indeed, the meaningful ties of friendship forged between Chinese and Filipinos have enabled us to empower our people, especially those who are vulnerable and marginalized. It is my hope that your remarkable traits and values will continue to fuel your pursuit of a dynamic and vibrant Chinese-Filipino business community that contributes to our nation’s overall advancement,” he added.

FFCCCII President Domingo Yap said they will continue to give their full support for the Duterte administration as they are confident in his leadership to lead the country towards a better future.

“With your strong leadership and many reforms you implemented, you have given our country not just hope but confident in our people capability to be in-charge of our future and to show resilient in the face of difficulties,” Yap said in his speech.

“We reiterate our full support to you because we have absolute confident in your leadership to lead the country towards a better future,” he said.

Present in the event are House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, FFCCCII President Domingo Yap, Banco de Oro (BDO) Unibank, Inc. chairperson Teresita Sy-Coson, and FFCCCII Executive Vice President Henry Lim Bon Liong. Ella Dionisio/DMS