BY EDISON JOSEPH GONZALES
Long journeys, family separation and the search for a better future form the emotional core of “Dear You,” a film about the overseas Chinese experience that the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) is presenting to Filipino audiences as part of its effort to advance cultural exchange and understanding.
At a press conference, FFCCCII president Victor Lim said the initiative reflects the federation’s commitment to cultural exchanges that foster mutual understanding, strengthen friendship among peoples and celebrate shared heritage.
“Our Federation has always been committed not only to promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the Philippines and supporting meaningful socio-civic and charitable initiatives, but also to advancing cultural exchanges that foster mutual understanding, strengthen friendship among peoples, and celebrate our shared heritage,” Lim said.
Presented by the Anvil Business Club in partnership with the FFCCCII, “Dear You” tells the story of the overseas Chinese experience between Thailand and southern China, featuring themes of family, sacrifice, resilience and hope.
Lim described the film as “a touching narrative of family, sacrifice, resilience, and hope” and said its message could resonate with Filipinos.
“We believe its message will resonate deeply with Filipinos. As a nation with millions of Overseas Filipino Workers serving in many parts of the world, we understand the sacrifices, separation, and emotional journeys of families striving to build better lives for their loved ones,” Lim said.
The film is primarily in the Teochew language and is accompanied by English subtitles. Lim said Teochew shares many similarities with Hokkien, which is spoken by many members of the Filipino Chinese community.
Lim said “Dear You” has become a major box-office success across Asia.
The FFCCCII will sponsor two advance screenings of the film: Aug. 5 at 7 p.m. at SM Mall of Asia IMAX and Aug. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at SM North EDSA Cinema 3.
The screenings are being held in cooperation with the Anvil Business Club, one of more than 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce and business organizations that comprise the federation, with members from Aparri to Tawi-Tawi.
Lim said the initiative reflects the spirit of the federation’s “Operation: Barrio Schools” program, through which it has donated more than 6,500 public school buildings to underserved communities throughout the country since 1961.
“Today, we are delighted to continue that mission through the advance screening of ‘Dear You,’” Lim said.
Through the film screening, the FFCCCII continues its efforts to use art, culture and friendship as bridges toward greater understanding, unity and development.