INDIVIDUALS who have made efforts over time to promote friendly ties and mutual understanding between the Philippines and China are honored as Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU) laureates.For the 2024 edition, the ceremonies will be held at The Manila Hotel Centennial Hall on June 7, 2024. A joint undertaking of the Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) and the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Philippines, APPCU is a prestigious recognition of tireless efforts of Filipino citizens dedicated to fostering amity, friendship, and mutual understanding between the Philippines and China.Launched on January 16, 2021, when Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo jointly attended the inauguration of the Manila Forum for China-Philippines Relations via video link, a number of Filipinos have already been bestowed the honor as APPCU laureates.APCU is a pioneering non-governmental organization in the Philippines focused on enhancing bilateral relations through people-to-people diplomacy.Through a rigorous selection process, these honorees were proven to have made efforts in strengthening friendly ties and promoting mutual understanding between the Philippines and China, using their respective advocacies and expertise in the various fields and disciplines of mass media and public service, trade and commerce, and arts, culture, and the sciences.The Outstanding Contributions category recognizes individuals who nonetheless made notable contributions to strengthening Philippine-China bilateral relations, friendship, cooperation, and understanding. The awardees are Benito Techico and Manuel Mamba.Meanwhile, the Major Contributions category acknowledges the works of individuals whose works have a growing reach and impact on the lives of specific groups or communities of people at the grassroots level. The awardees are Ching Tam Cua and Lily Tan Lim.BENITO TECHICOOutstanding Contributions AwardeeBenito Gosiaco Techico has been performing as the special envoy of the President to China for trade, investments and tourism tasked to coordinate with government officials, business leaders and other important stakeholders to advance the economic cooperation between China and the Philippines. He was designated as the Special Envoy of the President to the People's Republic of China for Trade, Investment and Tourism by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on February 21, 2023, and was reappointed to the same post on August 1, 2023.During the past year, he has fulfilled his duties with all his heart, dared to take responsibilities and played a constructive role in promoting the development of relations between China and the Philippines, as well as economic, trade and people-to-people exchanges."Techico was born in Caloocan City on December 20, 1975 to Felisa Hau Lai Yuet Gosiaco and Filipino-Chinese tycoon, philanthropist and table tennis "godfather" Stephen Chavez Techico.He is a graduate of De La Salle University. He was known to have been an independent director of MRC Allied Inc. (MRC), the first publicly listed property development firm in the Philippines which has found its niche in development of master planned, integrated residential, commercial, recreational, tourism and industrial areas within a single community or township.Many of his other known business endeavors come under the banner of Euro Group of Companies, which includes the Philippine Blue Cross Biotech Corporation, where he used to serve as the company president and CEO.Another is the Uni-Orient Travel, also a subsidiary of Euro Group of Companies where he used to serve as the company president and CEO. Uni-Orient Travel is regarded as the leading travel agency and tour operator in the Philippines, and is known as the ground handler of chartered flights for tourists and the first travel agency to bring Chinese tourists to Manila.Presently, Techico is also still listed as member of the board of directors and principal officers of Salisbury Securities Corporation (formerly Salisbury BKT Securities Corporation), as well as the treasurer and corporate secretary.It has been said of Benito Techico or Xu Zhijun, as he is called in Chinese, that, "he is a well-known business figure in the Philippines. He has been working in the Philippine business community for a long time, operating in several industries including clinical diagnostics, real estate development, tourism and hospitality, wholesale and retail trade, and information technology."During the past year, he has fulfilled his duties with all his heart, dared to take responsibilities and played a constructive role in promoting the development of relations between China and the Philippines, as well as economic, trade and people-to-people exchanges.Through more people-to-people exchanges in the aspect of athletic and cultural interactions, tourism, business and trade, Techico becomes an agent not only in promoting closer ties in the people-to-people level, but may also serve to de-escalate tensions in perceived conflict areas, by putting more emphasis on what can be built on together instead of what is to be conflicted about.MANUEL MAMBAOutstanding Contributions AwardeeA medical doctor by profession, Manuel Noveno Mamba Sr. was born on August 19, 1958 to Estelita Noveno and Francisco Kanapi Mamba, who was a former congressman.He is currently serving as the Governor of Cagayan Province since 2016 and also the current chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council. He previously served as the Presidential Legislative Liaison Officer heading the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office, and as Presidential Adviser on Legislative Affairs under the Aquino administration.He also represented the 3rd District of Cagayan to the House of Representatives of the Philippines. He was first elected in 1995, and re-elected in 2001, 2004, and 2007. He also served as a Municipal Mayor of Tuao, Cagayan, from 1988 to 1995. He was raised in a family that greatly values the importance of education and public service, and so at an early age he was able to develop his passion for learning and helping his community.He is a graduate of the University of Santo Tomas with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology for an undergraduate degree, and then with a Doctor of Medicine for a professional degree. He became licensed to practice medicine in 1983. He then offered to help improve the health sector of his community.In his desire to lend a hand to many, especially those in far-flung areas, he then decided to enter the government and continue to be a public servant.He started his political career in 1987 as a Provincial Board Member (Sangguniang Panlalawigan) for the province of Cagayan, and then as Municipal Mayor of Tuao, his hometown, in 1988 until 1995.It has been said of him that "long before the ongoing relentless fight against illegal drugs, illegal gambling and graft and corruption in our country today, the Municipality of Tuao, Cagayan already had Mayor Manuel Mamba who fought these ills as fiercely, if not more." And that "what he has accomplished for his town, Tuao, during his stint as mayor, has earned him the right to ask Cagayanos to listen and believe in him."He then represented the 3rd District of Cagayan in the House of the Representatives within four terms, from 1995 to 1998, then from 2001 to 2010.As a congressman, this was what was said of him, "long before we knew of a President who works thru the night, the 3rd District of Cagayan already had Congressman Manuel Mamba who worked till dawn, and a Secretary Manuel Mamba who delivered on every promise made" as a member of the Benigno Aquino III Cabinet.Working on a strong campaign platform for anti-corruption and good governance, Cagayanos eventually gave him an overwhelming mandate. During his term, several programs were implemented that fall under his vision of a renewed Cagayan thru "Pabaruen ti Cagayan" vis-à-vis "Cagayan Moving Northward."He set in motion the 10-point Cagayan Development Agenda (Caganda 2025) by treating the neighboring countries like China, Korea, and Japan as indispensable partners for a sustainable people-centered economic development.With Caganda 2025 in place, the Province of Cagayan is now on its way to becoming a part of the international trading and investment scene, with the reopening and development of the Aparri Port which can serve as an alternative to the Port of Singapore, the International Airport and Smart City in Piat-Solana-Tuao area, and the Railway system connecting the two ports. And it has been said of him, "Creating a compelling vision of the future is a skill."Mamba strongly opposed the expansion of US military presence under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), citing the risk of the Philippines being dragged into a wider conflict with China."The Philippines and China should always adhere to peace, friendship and cooperation. Cagayan is geographically close to China, and it has historically been the earliest area for the Philippines to engage in exchanges with China. As such, Cagayan is willing to become the gateway and bridge for exchanges and cooperation between the two countries," he said.If one keeps in mind the developmental program Caganda 2025, "No Barangay, No Town Left Behind," that he envisions for his province, one thinks he had to take that stand, that is to so strongly oppose it.Like he said, "[our] two countries should resolve differences through dialogue and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. Not a show of force, not a show of might, not acts inciting anarchy."In 2019, Mamba was recognized as a Kapayapaan Awardee, and the Provincial Government of Cagayan was a National Awardee in the Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Performance Audit. In March of 2022, he was commended as the Top 5 Performing Governor of the Philippines in a nationwide survey conducted by the RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMDI). This recognition was brought by all the work he has done into transforming Cagayan into a premium province.CHING TAM CUAMajor Contributions AwardeeChing Tam Cua is a prominent figure dedicated to promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the Philippines and China.With a lifelong commitment to fostering cross-cultural relations, Cua has made significant contributions through various roles, particularly within APCU. He currently serves as a Director at the APCU and is the Trustee and Chairman of the Council of Elders for 2023 and 2024.Under his leadership, APCU has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at strengthening the ties between the Philippines and China.In 2023, Cua played a pivotal role in the announcement of APPCU. This event, held at the Pandesal Forum of Kamuning Bakery Cafe in Quezon City, showcased his significant influence. The APPCU awards ceremony is a notable event that aligns with the celebration of "Philippines- China Friendship Day," commemorating the establishment of formal diplomatic ties between the Republic of the Philippines and the People's Republic of China on June 9, 1975. This initiative exemplifies Cua's dedication to enhancing bilateral relations and celebrating those who contribute to this cause.In 2009, Cua's commitment to fostering stronger ties between the Philippines and China was highlighted during a significant dinner-conference hosted by the People's Republic of China Ambassador to the Philippines, Liu Jianchao.The event brought together various officers of APCU and reaffirmed their commitment to the Five Pillars of Cooperation: education, health, culture, tourism, and youth and sports.Cua's participation in such high-level meetings underscores his dedication to creating lasting bonds between the two nations.He is also an accomplished writer. In 2003, he published "Flores De Mayo," a collection of three stories originally written in Chinese and translated into Filipino by Joaquin Sy.The book was a finalist in the National Book Award in 2007, showcasing Cua's storytelling prowess and his commitment to cultural integration.Published by the Chinese-Filipino NGO Kaisa Para sa Kaunlaran, "Flores De Mayo" aligns with the organization's mission to promote understanding and cooperation among ethnic Chinese communities and broader Filipino society.In 2018, Cua's exceptional talents were recognized when he clinched the prestigious Elang Mas Cup grand prize in a writing competition held in Indonesia. This achievement highlights his literary talents and his dedication to promoting cultural exchange and understanding through various platforms.Throughout his career, Cua has been a steadfast advocate for Philippine-China relations. His efforts in organizing and participating in events, such as the APPCU awards and diplomatic dinners, have significantly contributed to fostering mutual respect and cooperation. His literary works further illustrate his commitment to cultural dialogue and understanding.Cua's multifaceted contributions – spanning diplomacy, literature, and cultural advocacy – reflect a lifelong dedication to bridging cultures and fostering a deeper understanding between the peoples of the Philippines and China. His work continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations committed to international friendship and cooperation.DR. LILY TAN LIMMajor Contributions AwardeeDriven by a desire to succeed in everything she took an interest in and was a part of, coupled with a very strong sense of responsibility, and a deeply-rooted spirit of giving back to society, Dr. Lily Lim is an epitome of a successful career woman at the same time an exemplary humanitarian advocate."My message is not only for the Filipino-Chinese or the pure Chinese. But also, for our brothers in the Filipino community. Let us be optimistic and positive and believe that everything is possible. There is no such thing as hard or impossible. As long as you have faith, you can achieve anything and everything. Just don't give up," Lim said of her endeavors in promoting peace and understanding between cultures.On education, she said, "Moral education, as now, was fundamental because it deals with character. Education starts from childhood, and that's how education is essential"From these words, Lim's active involvement in the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) Operation Barrio Schools progeam gives testament to this belief. Pursuing education, and sharing that pursuit is exemplified in the many courses and disciplines she has enrolled in, the many forums and conferences she was a participant of, as well as being one of several advocacies that she fervently supports.In her many advocacies, civic and charitable contributions, Lim embodies the word "humanitarianism." Her connections with various individuals from diverse fields and different walks of life, and her active involvement in several companies, associations, groups, and federations, and in all the tourism visits and expos, investment and trade fairs, forums and conferences, and the like that she had participated in, it was all with the eventual aim of being of service to society.A fourth generation Filipino-Chinese descent, Lim was born in Manila on January 3, 1950. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Adamson University in 1969, and a Bachelor of Science in Criminology from the Philippine College of Criminology in 1974.Her strong respect for education coupled with her varied interests led her to enrolling in several other special courses thereafter such as the Executive Program of Business Administration in Public Administration from the National Cheng Chi University in Taipei, Taiwan (1991); East Asean Executive Leadership Course at the Harvard University in Boston, U.S.A. (1993); Financial Manager Workshop at the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission of Taiwan (2004); Executive Course on National Security in 2005 and for an Executive Course in Conflict Management Resolution in 2007 at the National Defense College of the Philippines.She also took up a Paralegal Course at The Manila Times Institute for Paralegal Studies (MTIPS) in 2006.Lim later earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from the San Beda College Graduate School of Law, and a Master of Science in Guidance Counselling from De La Salle University. And just a few years after that she then earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management from the International Academy of Management and Economics, followed by a Doctor of Public Administration from the Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology from her alma mater the Philippine College of Criminology.Add to all that, she also enrolled in a Doctorate Program in Complementary and Alternative Medicine from the University of Makati in 2016.She started her career as a teacher at the Philippine Pasay Chinese School and later became the first lady reporter made to cover community news during Martial Law in 1974 under the leadership of Kerima Polotan-Tuvera at the Orient News.Her contribution in the press called the attention of some entrepreneurs in the country, and they invited her to join the business sector. She handled the marketing and distribution network of Universal Cement Corporation in the Visayas and Mindanao islands from 1978 until 1990. She then became the Marketing Manager for Philippine Taiwan Mining Corporation from 1991 until 1994, then the Managing Director for Benson Trading from 1996 until 1998, and for Bottled Spirit Marketing from 2000 until 2003.These were followed by her becoming the president of St. John Berchmann School of Manila Foundation Inc. from 2005 until 2012, and then eventually she owned the school from then on.When she started in the field of consultancy, she was able to forge several business ventures between the Philippines and foreign countries, in particular China.Presently, she is the Area Marketing Director of Tangent Ventures International Realty Corporation based in Bulacan, as well as a Correspondent for Asia Pacific Chinese Media Inc.As a civic leader, she joined the United Nations Global Compact in 2005 that was designed by then United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan to support the Ten Principles in respect to human rights, labor rights, and the protection of the environment, and anti-corruption.Lim also participated in various professional, social, civic and charitable organizations. She was a board of trustee for the group Volunteer Against Crime and Corruption in 2004 until 2008, the deputy secretary general of the Wushu Federation Philippines since 2010, the president of the Philippine College of Criminology Alumni Association, Inc. since 2011, and the managing director of the International Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines since 2016.She is also a member of the Association of Harvard University Alumni Association, Adamson University Alumni Association, San Beda College Alumni Association, Business and Professional Women of the Phils., All Nations Women's Group, Zonta Club of Greater Rizal Foundation, Philippine Council of Management, Philippine Constitution Association, Philippine Institute of Arbitrators, Manila Overseas Press Club, Tamaraw Toastmasters Club, Powerhaus Toastmaster Club of the Philippines and Tzu Chi Foundation.In 2022, Lim was a recipient of the Galing Pinas Partnership Excellence Award from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), and received the 1st Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Award in 2021.Presently, Lim is the elected executive director of FFCCCII as well as the vice chairman of the federation's Media and Public Information (Working) Committee.Being an active and stalwart member of the federation gave her the platform to hone her strengths in leadership and logistical support, thus promoting understanding, friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and China in the areas of humanitarian activities.
INDIVIDUALS who have made efforts over time to promote friendly ties and mutual understanding between the Philippines and China are honored as Award for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU) laureates. For the 2024 edition, the ceremonies will be held at The Manila Hotel Centennial Hall on June 7, 2024. Register to read this story and more for free .
Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options..
