THE Philippines, with its pristine tropical islands, world-renowned beaches and the warm hospitality of its people, has long been a gem in Asia's tourism crown.Now, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), led by President Cecilio Pedro, has been stepping up to help transform the country's tourism industry into a global powerhouse.In a recent meeting with Department of Tourism (DoT) Secretary Christina Frasco and her team, the FFCCCII expressed its unwavering support for DoT initiatives aimed at elevating Philippine tourism to world-class standards, positioning it among Asia's top destinations.As an exponent of Philippine global competitiveness and economic progress, the FFCCCII believes that the Philippines holds a natural competitive advantage in the global tourism market and should grow this industry.FFCCCII is encouraging Filipino Chinese entrepreneurs to support Philippine tourism. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, the country boasts a highly English-proficient population, making it an accessible and welcoming destination for international travelers. Pedro and his team see tourism as more than just an economic driver; it is a catalyst for rural development, ecological preservation, and the promotion of arts and culture.One of the FFCCCII's bold proposals is to bid for the privilege of hosting the World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention (WCEC), a prestigious event that attracts thousands of top-tier business leaders from the global Chinese diaspora.The last WCEC, hosted by Kuala Lumpur in 2024, saw Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim personally welcoming thousands of business tycoons, showcasing the event's potential to boost tourism and international visibility.The inaugural WCEC, launched in Singapore and graced by the late statesman Lee Kuan Yew, set the standard for this high-profile gathering. By bringing the convention to the Philippines, the FFCCCII aims to spotlight the country as a prime destination for business and leisure.In addition to this ambitious bid, the FFCCCII has proposed enhancing the Chinese Garden in Rizal Park, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub. Plans include regular events such as music concerts, art and calligraphy demonstrations, and Wushu martial arts performances. These initiatives aim to enrich the visitor experience while celebrating the shared heritage of Filipino and Chinese cultures.The FFCCCII is also committed to helping the Philippines tap into the lucrative Chinese tourism market. In 2024, the Philippines welcomed 313,000 Chinese tourists — a figure dwarfed by Thailand's 6.3 million, Malaysia's 4 million and Singapore's 2.88 million. Recognizing this gap, the FFCCCII has offered to leverage its extensive networks to promote Philippine tourism in China and other key markets, also including Hong Kong, Singapore, Macau, Taiwan and beyond. Its goal is to position the Philippines as a must-visit destination for travelers across Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe and Latin America.The FFCCCII's support extends beyond marketing. The organization is dedicated to fostering partnerships with regional business networks and entrepreneurial groups to amplify the Philippines' global appeal.Secretary Frasco welcomes the FFCCCII's proposals, noting that such private-sector initiatives are crucial for the sustainable growth of Philippine tourism. With the FFCCCII's support, the DoT aims to not only increase visitor numbers but also ensure that tourism benefits local communities, preserves natural resources and celebrates the country's rich cultural heritage.As the Philippines sets its sights on becoming a world-class tourism destination, the FFCCCII's commitment serves as a testament to the power of collaboration. By harnessing the country's natural beauty, cultural richness and the dynamism of its people, the Philippines is poised to shine on the global stage — one tourist at a time.