Strengthening Ties Between Taiwan and the Philippines New Leadership at the Taiwanese Association of the Philippines
The Taiwanese Association of the Philippines held its 19th and 20th inauguration and turnover ceremony on January 12, marking a significant moment in the organization’s efforts to foster stronger bonds among Taiwanese expatriates and support the advancement of Taiwan-Philippines relations. The event welcomed Mr. Pai Shih-jung, a prominent Taiwanese business leader, as the new president.
During his inaugural speech, Mr. Pai highlighted his vision to enhance connections among Taiwanese expatriates in the Philippines through networking events, lectures, and social activities. He also emphasized leveraging social media and online platforms to promote the association’s values and initiatives, including the formation of a basketball team to attract younger members.
The grand ceremony, attended by over 300 guests, saw the presence of distinguished officials from Taiwan, including Minister of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) Hsu Chia-ching, Secretary-General of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Lin You-chang, and Legislator Lee Kuen-cheng. Minister Hsu presided over the official handover ceremony, while Taiwan Ambassador to the Philippines Wallace Minn-Gan Chow administered the oath for the new board members. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te also conveyed his congratulations through a formal message.
Under Mr. Pai’s leadership, the association plans to uphold its commitment to “serving fellow countrymen and caring for the disadvantaged.” The association aims to give back to Philippine society through charitable activities such as disaster relief, medical missions, poverty alleviation, and computer donations. Additionally, the organization reaffirms its support for Taiwan’s foreign policy and will continue to play a key role in fostering Taiwan-Philippines relations.
Taiwan Ambassador to the Philippines Wallace Minn-Gan Chow expressed his hope that the Taiwanese Association of the Philippines, under Mr. Pai’s guidance, will remain dedicated to serving Taiwanese expatriates, encouraging collaboration with the Taiwanese community, and inspiring more Taiwanese investments in the Philippines. He also underscored the importance of cultivating the younger generation to carry forward the community’s legacy.
Minister Hsu Chia-ching praised the association for its efforts under the leadership of former president Andrew Liang, particularly its advocacy for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly. She encouraged the new leadership to continue contributing to Taiwan-Philippines friendship, cultural exchange, and social development.
Secretary-General Lin You-chang noted the growing partnership between Taiwan and the Philippines, particularly in tourism, trade, and strategic initiatives. He affirmed the Taiwan government’s commitment to investing in the Philippines’ growth and development, emphasizing the vital role the Taiwanese Association of the Philippines plays in strengthening bilateral ties. Legislator Lee Kuen-cheng echoed these sentiments, highlighting the deepening collaboration between the two nations across multiple sectors.
Established on November 24, 2006, the Taiwanese Association of the Philippines evolved from the Democratic Progressive Fellowship. Its mission is to foster solidarity and mutual support among Taiwanese expatriates, safeguard their legal rights, and strengthen connections with similar organizations worldwide.
The Taiwanese Association of the Philippines continues to stand as a cornerstone of the Taiwanese community in the Philippines, promoting unity, goodwill, and the shared aspirations of the Taiwanese people.
