The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) has expressed its gratitude to Jose Mari Chan, known as the “King of Pinoy Christmas Carols,” for his continued support of the group’s socio-civic and charity initiatives.
Chan, an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and businessman, has been actively involved in FFCCCII’s programs for over four decades. His contributions include disaster relief efforts, free medical missions, scholarship grants, the construction of rural public schools, and support for Filipino-Chinese volunteer fire brigades, according to FFCCCII president Cecilio Pedro.
“We have been building classrooms for the last 35 to 40 years. As of now, we have built 6,500 classrooms. Many schools are in dire need of facilities, and we step in to help,” Pedro said.
Pedro also noted Chan’s involvement with the Ateneo scholarship foundation, which has supported students by offsetting tuition costs.
“This initiative has been instrumental in helping students, with around 21 percent of the university’s population benefiting from scholarships over the years,” he said.
During the recent series of typhoons, FFCCCII and the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Foundation allocated P60 million to P65 million for rice donations distributed to affected areas, including Bicol, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Metro Manila.
As the holiday season approaches, Pedro said FFCCCII is committed to continuing its aid for Filipino families in need, emphasizing the spirit of bayanihan.
FFCCCII also partnered with the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd) to assist typhoon victims. Pedro and FFCCCII Public Information Committee Chairman Wilson Lee Flores handed over a donation to SPEEd President Salve Asis during a Christmas charity event.
The partnership has previously included outreach programs, such as a two-day medical and dental mission in Nueva Ecija and Aurora provinces.
Pedro acknowledged the role of media professionals in promoting positivity. “Media personnel are heroes. You bring hope and good news, spreading happiness to many Filipinos,” he said.
Pedro, who is also the president and CEO of Lamoiyan Corporation, makers of Hapee Toothpaste and Dazz Dishwashing products, has long been connected to the entertainment industry. Lamoiyan’s past celebrity endorsers include Ruffa Gutierrez, Lea Salonga, Angel Locsin, and the late German Moreno.
