Fil-Chinese biz leader vows closer links with Ilonggo community

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

The new leadership of the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce Iloilo, Inc. (FCCCII) under Engr. Terence Uygongco vowed to work closely with the Ilonggo community to bolster recovery from the crippling effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises.

Uygongco made the assurance during the 112th founding anniversary and induction of officers on Feb 25, 2023 at the Iloilo Convention Center in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

In his acceptance speech, Uygongco said his two-year term will focus on increasing FCCCII’s membership, bring more meaningful projects and unite Filipino-Businesses in Iloilo.

He said that he will continue the thrusts set by his predecessor, immediate past president Vicente Tang in strengthening the organization and bringing more progress to Iloilo.

Uygongco cited four areas where FCCCII and the local government can work together to promote economic growth, social development, and sustainability.

One area of cooperation is to provide resources and support to local businesses.

“Our chamber of commerce can offer training programs, access to capital, and networking opportunities. By helping local businesses thrive, the chamber can contribute to the economic growth and job creation of the city and province of Iloilo and the whole region.”

The FCCCII can also advocate for policy change that will promote growth and development such as tax incentives, infrastructure development, and education initiatives.

“By working closely with the city and other important stakeholders, the chamber can help shape policies that will significantly benefit the community,” Uygongco said.

A third initiative Uygongco proposed is to support community development that will bolster sustainability, resilience, social responsibility, and environmental conservation.

“The chamber can partner with the city on renewable energy projects, create green spaces, support education initiatives that will local workforce and talent.”

Uygongco also pushed for Public-Private Partnerships that will bring together businesses, civil society organizations, and local government units “to achieve a shared vision.”

“Through strategic collaborations, we can leverage our resources and expertise to create positive impact on society,” he added.

Uygongco also cited the role of the Filipino-Chinese community in nation-building given their hard work, resilience, and commitment.

“Let us remain steadfast in our zeal to contribute towards creating a country that is innovative, vibrant, and prosperous for the next generation. Let us overcome our adversities, achieve great things, and revel in the bright future ahead of us.

Iloilo City lone district Rep. Julienne Baronda thanked the FCCCII for helping the city recover from the pandemic and previous crises.

Baronda said she also refiled the Metro Iloilo Special Economic Zone bill which was approved by the House of Representatives and approved by the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs in the 18th Congress.

“We want to benefit from opportunities as our national government aggressively promotes our country to foreign investments,” she added.

In calling for the support of the chamber, Baronda said the bill should not be a cause for concern as the measure will include a “negative list” to protect local businesses.

Uswag Ilonggo party list Rep. James “Jojo” Ang Jr., who is also a member and officer of FCCCII, hailed the chamber for persevering the crisis, citing the help and support of its members and leaders.

“The FCCCII is a community of business leaders and professionals who are committed to furthering our country’s economic growth. As an organization, FCCCII has continuously implemented programs and projects for the Filipino community nationwide,” Ang said.

The new set of FCCCII officers for 2023-2025 are:

– Dr. Felipe A. Uygongco, Honorary President

– Mr. Robert U. Po, Past President

– Mr. Vicente Tang, Immediate Past President

– Engr. Terence S. Uygongco, President

– Ian Eric S. Pama, Executive Vice President

– Antonio H. Lim, Vice President

– Louis K. Uy, Corporate Secretary

– Jobert John L. Posadas, Treasurer

– Engr. Roswell T. Limsui, Auditor

– Julian Felipe S. Uygongco, Assistant Auditor

– Rep. James A. Ang Jr., P.R.O.

– Mr. Romeo S. Go, Assistant P.R.O.

– Vicente Danilo E. Tan Chan, Business Manager

– Mr. Robert L. Uy, Assistant Business Manager