President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called for a revitalized government partnership with the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), noting the vital role of the federation in economic development and national progress.
“Now, more than ever, we call on our reliable partnership with the Federation as we strive to revitalize and transform our economy in this critical period of our history,” President Marcos said during the oath-taking rites in Malacañang for the new set of officers of the FFCCCII.
“As in every mutually beneficial partnership, the Federation will rest assured that this Administration will continue to support this healthy relationship.”
The President vowed to continue listening to the concerns of the business sector and exert efforts to improve the business climate and foster ease and efficiency in doing business.
Marcos said his administration has initiated significant steps and adjustments to address the issues raised by the federation during a meeting last year.
Among these measures include improving tax administration and fiscal incentives system and other strategic interventions, as well as streamlining existing regulatory mechanisms through expedited and integrated processes and digitalization of key government services.
“So as part of this Administration’s agenda, partnerships with the private sector have been actively pursued and nurtured, in recognition of this essential role that you play in our development,” he stressed, expecting the FFFCCII to remain the government’s dependable ally in the pursuit of prosperity, inclusivity, and resiliency,” Marcos said.
“Definitely, this is a partnership that my Administration will continue to preserve, harness, and enhance, so that it may bring forth greater benefits for businesses, our citizens, and the country. We look forward to further deepening and strengthening that relationship, through continuing dialogues and amicable approaches,” he added.
The chief executive also thanked the FFCCCII for bridging the Philippines and China through the years, as the two nations mark this month the 48th year of the formal establishment of diplomatic relations.
For almost 70 years, the FFCCCII has been at the forefront of efforts in bringing investments and opening various economic opportunities that benefit both the Filipino-Chinese communities and the Filipino public, he said.
Marcos also commended the FFCCCII for demonstrating its dependability in partnering with the government and in supporting its programs and advocacies that benefit the citizenry.
“Furthermore, we convey our gratitude for the humanitarian efforts that has been extended and orchestrated in times of need, especially during the height of the pandemic,” said Marcos, recognizing the FFCCCII’ contributions beyond the business realm, through high-impact socio-civic projects all across the country.
Most notably, the President praised the FFCCCII’s flagship program “Operation: Barrio Schools”, which he said deserves special mention. The President also witnessed during the event the symbolic turnover of a scale model of a two-classroom building under the FFCCCII’s flagship program.
Established in 1954, FFCCCII is a non-stock, non-profit corporation that brings together under one roof chambers of commerce and trade associations from all over the country.
The largest organization of Filipino-Chinese businesses, it is actively involved in the economic, social, civic, and cultural activities in the country and also undertakes trade and investment missions; business and entrepreneurship promotion; job fairs; medical and dental missions; and relief operations in times of disasters.
FFCCCII President Cecilio K. Pedro led the federation’s new set of officers for 2023-2025 who were elected during its 33rd Biennial Convention last March. (PND)
