The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) hosted its annual Chinese New Year Dinner Reception and Special Awards Ceremony on January 29 at the Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant in Pasay City. The event celebrated Lunar New Year traditions, honored outstanding Filipinos, and marked the 50th anniversary of Philippines-China diplomatic relations. Under the theme of the Year of the Snake, the gathering recognized seven individuals for their contributions to Philippine society. Among them was former First Lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, acknowledged for her role in establishing diplomatic ties with China, with Senator Imee Marcos accepting the award on her behalf. Renowned screenwriter Ricky Lee, singer-songwriter Jose Mari Chan, and journalist Jessica Soho were also among the esteemed awardees.
Jessica Soho, celebrating her 40th anniversary in journalism, received recognition for her contributions to broadcast media. During her speech, she dedicated the award to her late Chinese grandfathers, acknowledging her heritage and the influence of the Filipino-Chinese community. Soho recalled tracing her roots to Guangdong in 2007 and shared how her Cantonese ancestry influenced her love for Chinese cuisine. Kenneth Cobonpue, a globally acclaimed industrial designer, was honored for elevating Filipino craftsmanship on the world stage. Beauty queen Michelle Dee was also recognized for her advocacy work, particularly in autism awareness, continuing her family's legacy of philanthropy and community service.
Beyond individual recognitions, the event underscored the strong cultural and economic ties between the Philippines and China. FFCCCII President Dr. Cecilio Pedro emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration, especially as the two nations marked five decades of diplomatic relations. He highlighted the organization’s efforts in fostering goodwill through socio-civic initiatives, business-friendly policies, and trade missions. A grand celebration at Jones Bridge in Binondo featured fireworks and a drone display, symbolizing the enduring connection between the Filipino and Chinese communities.
Senator Imee Marcos, arriving from General Santos, commended the Filipino-Chinese community for its significant contributions to the country’s economic and social development. She noted that despite comprising only a small percentage of the population, the community played a vital role in shaping the nation’s progress. She also lauded the FFCCCII’s commitment to education, relief efforts, and cultural programs. As the evening concluded, the celebration stood as a testament to the deep-rooted friendship between the Philippines and China, reinforcing the shared aspirations for a prosperous future.