Ben Contreras
THIRTY years ago, it was history in the making when fresh from her seat as President of the Republic of the Philippines, Madame Corazon C. Aquino breezed to town to personally and officially charter the newly organized Misamis Oriental Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (MOFCCCII) and install its first set of officers led by business tycoon Mr. Stephen S. Gaisano Jr.
Today, MOFCCCII celebrates its 30th anniversary and installs its 16th set of new officers. Outgoing president Greg Marten Lao obliged me with this brief interview.
“It is with great fondness to look back and reminisce how a small group of local businessmen grew to a size it is today. When I took the baton of leadership two years ago as the 15th President of MOFCCCII, there had always been this anxiety of meeting the challenges that are inherent in an organization such as this. But the good system that runs the organization characterized by its team work makes everyone very effective, coupled with the commitments and supports given by past leaders in many aspects of our endeavors.”
Lao is very proud of their accomplishments. There are traditions that are being followed to maintain if not, strengthen their camaraderie. Past president Robert Ching started with the monthly celebration of all birthday celebrants the observance of the Moon Cake festival of which PP Stephen S. Gaisano has always been the number spender, outings, year-end thanksgiving and the fanfares during the Luna Year (Chinese New Year).
The celebration of the Chinese New Year has always been characterized with inviting schools to perform songs and dances that are of cultural values. Teachers, active and retired are invited as a way of paying tribute to their contributions in shaping up the youth to become future leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs. They are always given something as a token of gratitude.
MOFCCCII values education and the younger generation are always reminded of it, encouraging them to strive hard and learn more. It also stresses the importance of the Chinese language and education.
It was during Lao’s term in 2015 that Mindanao Development Authority, in cooperation with some New Zealand senior experts, conducted a 10-day research and seminar on how improve the management of an organization, of which MOFCCCII benefited from their report.
One of Lao’s major achievements was the propagation of foreign and local relations. His acquaintance with some fairly high Chinese Embassy officials and people from the Chinese Consul in Cebu made some interactions possible that benefited the organization and our community. At the local front, Lao also worked to strengthen relationship and consultation with the local government on policies that affects the community and the business sector. The Oro Chamber has been a good partner in this endeavor.
On Jan. 5, 2015, a small entourage of MOFCCCII officers led by Lao accompanied Mayor Oscar S. Moreno to Harbin City, China. From Sept. 8 to 12, Lao led a delegation of MOFCCCII members to attend the Xia Men International Investment and Trade Fair, visiting several factories.
Last September 2015, MOFCCCII also spent P600 thousand for the repair and renovation of the Mother Teresa Rehabilitation Center.
The Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigade is a consistent recipient of financial support from MOFCCCII. Another P100 thousand is being readied for donation.
Social responsibility and charity are strictly observed and adhered to. Perhaps, “Sendong” was one landmark of MOFCCCII and the Chinese community’s achievements in the history. Mobilization for assistance was swift to provide food, water and relief goods to hundreds of victims. They were able to solicit millions in cash assistance from different Chinese organizations in Manila.
They donated 300 houses at the relocation site and named it the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Village, and another 300 units which has yet to be finished by another group.
Part of the celebration is a song and dance contest to be participated by different colleges in the city. It is aimed at promoting environment awareness for the younger generation. This is in coordination with the City Tourism and Globe Telecom. The top three winners are expected to perform in the evening of celebration.
The challenge ahead is still great and aplenty. As Lao bows out from office, they look forward to a new leadership under an ever active lady, the incoming president Adelfa Sia, better known as the first lady of former councilor Juan Sia.
To MOFCCCII, congratulations and may you continue to grow in the service of your community.
