SMX Convention Center, Pasay City
March 23, 2023

Acknowledging their active participation in various government efforts that greatly contributed in accelerating the country’s development efforts, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. graced the opening ceremony of the 33rd Biennial Convention of Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

“Thus, it is only fitting that we acknowledge one of our long-standing partners, the Filipino-Chinese communities, in the steadfast development of the Philippine economy,” the President said in his keynote speech.

Since its inception in 1954, the Federation has become a catalyst for growth while initiating its social welfare programs such as Operation: Barrio Schools numbering to more than 6,000 school buildings all over the country, Operation Bakuna, conduct of medical missions every week, typhoon and earthquake relief operations, and establishment of volunteer fire fighting brigades.

The Chief Executive conveyed his appreciation to the Federation for joining him in his state visit to China last January, citing that the trip resulted to the signing of various agreements on bilateral trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. Among these are the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Electronic Commerce Cooperation and Protocol of Phytosanitary Requirements for Export of Fresh Durians from the Philippines to China.

“I am pleased to share that, as of February 2023, the BOI, Board of Investments is monitoring 90 active investment leads from Chinese companies engaged in manufacturing, information technology, business process management and renewable energy,” President Marcos Jr. remarked.

“To promote more investments in the energy sector, as well as to ensure that there is sufficient power supply and to lower electricity costs, we amended the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Renewable Energy Act, which removed foreign ownership restrictions for certain Renewable Energy generation projects in the Philippines. Also, as part of the efforts to further streamline the business permit and licensing processes, we issued an Executive Order constituting green lanes for strategic investments,” he added.

President Marcos Jr. called on the Federation to continue doing what it does best – to remain industrious, innovative and compassionate in improving the lives of the Filipino people through its business initiatives.

Comprising more than 170 member organizations across the country, the FFCCCII has been a strong partner of the national government in nation building and development.

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