The Filipino-Chinese community commemorated the annual Dragon Boat Festival this week while simultaneously launching a major relief effort for earthquake victims in Mindanao.
The festival honors the ancient poet and patriot Qu Yuan. He is remembered for his devotion to public service.
FFCCCII President Victor Lim spoke at a press conference in Binondo. He noted the timing of the cultural celebration.
“As we commemorate the Dragon Boat Festival – a celebration of patriotism, solidarity, and service to others – may we be reminded that our greatest strength lies in our unity and compassion for one another,” Lim said.
He added that the lesson of the festival is vital during this crisis. “At a time of crisis, the more we should come together. At a time of struggle, we should be more compassionate. At a time to recover, we help each, and no one is left behind,” Lim said.
The group is responding to a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. The disaster struck Mindanao on June 8, 2026.
The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation are leading the response. They have mobilized ₱11 million in total assistance.
“The Federation and the entire Filipino Chinese community are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by this tragedy,” Lim said. “Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and sources of income. Nakikiramay po kami.”
About 2,000 families in General Santos City have been affected. The coalition released P6 million for immediate emergency relief.
The group provided food packs to the victims. Each pack contains five kilograms of rice, canned goods, noodles, coffee, and water. They are also sending 4,000 galvanized iron roofing sheets to help families repair their homes.
The remaining ₱5 million will go toward long-term rehabilitation. This fund will specifically support the repair of public schools damaged by the quake.
“Our local chamber will continue to closely monitor developments on the ground and coordinate with government agencies to identify communities that may require additional assistance in the coming weeks,” Lim said.
The community has a long history of helping during disasters. Lim described this as a moral responsibility rather than just an obligation.
“For centuries, the Filipino Chinese community has stood side by side with our fellow Filipinos during times of calamity, crisis, and hardship. We believe that helping others is not merely an obligation—it is a moral responsibility and a shared expression of our gratitude to the nation we proudly call home,” Lim said.
He thanked the 30 organizations that make up the foundation. He also urged the public to continue supporting the recovery in Mindanao.
“No act of kindness is too small when people are in need,” Lim said. “The road to recovery may be long, but the resilience, courage, faith, and bayanihan spirit of the Filipino people remain stronger than any earthquake.”
