MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday cited the benefits of the friendship between Filipinos and Chinese, as he spoke before Filipino-Chinese businessmen in Pasay City.
“The meaningful ties of friendship forged between Chinese and Filipinos have enabled us to empower our people, especially those who are vulnerable and marginalized,” Duterte said at the 32nd biennial convention of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc.
“By devoting your resources to the improvement of our society, the Federation has consistently played a vital role in ushering a period of greater cooperation [and] understanding not only in the promotion of business and trade, but also in facing various challenges that we face as a nation,” he added.
“Let me take this opportunity to thank you for your support of this administration’s fight against the scourge of corruption, criminality and illegal drugs. Through your deeds, you have become our important partner in building the foundations of a more inclusive and sustainable society,” Duterte said.
The President also encouraged Filipino-Chinese businessmen to “come up with more initiatives” that will enhance the growth of industries and cultivate a greater business environment in the country.
He called for continued cooperation in building a more progressive Philippines.
“It is my hope that your remarkable traits and values will continue to fuel your pursuit of a dynamic and vibrant Chinese-Filipino business community that contributes to our nation’s overall advancement,” Duterte said.
BDO Unibank Inc.’s chairperson Teresita Sy-Coson, meanwhile, acknowledged the President’s infrastructure push through the Build Build Build program, and his administration’s efforts in maintaining peace and order in the country.
“Even if what you do is unconventional, we know you’re doing this because you love the country very much,” Sy-Coson said. (ABS-CBN News)
