FFCCCI: Filipino hearts

The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce, Inc. has been a mighty pillar of civic service for 70 years. They are a constant force in building schools, independent relief operations, volunteer fire brigades and assistance to the poor. They have been content to humbly work in the background, giving back proudly to Philippine society.

Lately, though, they have been thrust into the spotlight for their substantial assistance to Filipino athletes, most notable world number three pole vaulter EJ Obiena. This is under the initiative of their president, Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro. Pedro, a collegiate swimmer, first dipped his feet into sport by building a highly-successful Philippine Basketball League franchise for his Hapee Toothpaste. 

“We saw EJ’s potential early,” Pedro told The STAR. “We will support any sport which can win us medals in the Olympics.”

The FFCCCI aims to support other athletes whether or not they are Filipino-Chinese. Pedro has been eyeing swimming for a while, but is wary of getting caught in the middle of all the politicking. That’s why, in Obiena’s case, they handed funds directly to his mother.

Pedro is also saddened by issues like the battle for the West Philippine Sea, which muddy the relations between the Filipino-Chinese community and other businesses and private groups. He firmly declares that though they have Filipino blood, FFCCCI members have Filipino hearts. This explains the title of their 70th anniversary book “Dugong Chinoy, Pusong Pinoy” which was released earlier this year. 

“We want to help Philippine sports move forward. We want to help Philippines society move forward,” the Ateneo alumnus declares. “We are Filipinos. We are here for the long haul. We’re not going anywhere.”

In words and deeds, the FFCCCI makes that abundantly clear.