PICC, Pasay City
10 June 2016

President Benigno S. Aquino III bade farewell and extended his utmost appreciation to the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) as he celebrated this year’s Philippine independence and Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day for the last time as Chief Executive.

Aside from the annual medical missions, the President acknowledged FFCCCII for its continuous help to the Philippine National Police (PNP) by donating vehicles and equipment, providing safe and durable classrooms to students through its flagship project ‘Operation: Barrio Schools’ that has benefitted the country’s public school students since 1961, and for showing dependability during many disasters and calamities that the country has faced. Moreover, President Aquino recognized their contribution to the Philippine economy through the largest corporations that they own.

“Finally, I must note the important role you play in fostering greater understanding and closer ties between the Philippines and China — whether in terms of cultural activities, trade and investment, or even in the informal manner in which you have served as a channel of communication given the disputes in the sea known by many names,” President Aquino said, adding that these efforts helped both countries in continuing to strive for peace, stability and inclusive progress.

To honor FFCCCII, the Chief Executive conferred a Presidential citation that was received by FFCCCII President Mr. Angel Ngu for the association’s unwavering support to the Philippine government.

Before the start of the program, President Aquino signed the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) guest book. He was joined by Senate President Franklin Drilon, FFCCCII Chairman Emeritus Dr. Lucio Tan, FFCCCII Immediate Past President Dr. Alfonso Siy, and PICC General Manager Atty. Renato Padilla.

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