by Loui Lagare

PACS holds General Assembly and celebrates Lunar New Year 

The Philippine Association for Chinese Studies held its annual General Assembly and Lunar New Year celebrations through zoom on February 12, 2022. The general assembly serves as a venue for committees to report on their activities and accomplishments during the previous year.

Mr. Erwin Dizon, the PACS committee events head, hosted the assembly. Dr. Rommel Banlaoi, PACS President, delivered the event’s opening remarks. He acknowledged the achievements of each committee and announced the election of new board members in May. He thanked the whole PACS community for trusting him for two consecutive terms as President.

Following the President’s opening remarks, PACS Treasurer Mr. Charles Joseph De Guzman presented the PACS Financial Report for 2021-2022. He also expressed gratitude to all benefactors for their assistance and support. Since PACS is now registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, this is the first time that we are submitting audited financial statements.

Dr. Tina Clemente and Ms. Darlene Estrada presented the Chinese Studies Journal’s newest edition (Volume 15) and its website, formally launched this year. This is a PACS milestone, as the journal is now peer-reviewed.

The assembly’s guest speaker was His Excellency, Ambassador Chito Sta. Romana. He presented updates on Philippines-China relations and recent Chinese political developments, COVID19 regulations, and foreign policies. The participants were also encouraged to ask questions. The Winter Olympics, the South China Sea Code of Conduct, Chinese government scholarships, OFWs in China, and concerns about the Philippines’ upcoming election were discussed.