Did you know that back in the day, right after World War 2, Chinese nationals travelled throughout southeast Asia to work and eventually migrate?

They were among the first overseas workers, who left impoverished China to seek better economic opportunities in neighboring lands, including the Philippines. Their story mirrors the social reality facing Filipinos to this day.

One such story of Chinese migration and personal sacrifice is told in a movie called "Dear You," an epic romance that has become a major box-office success across Asia. It tells a moving and inspiring story of the overseas Chinese experience between Thailand and southern China—a touching narrative of family, sacrifice, resilience, and hope. Beyond deepening cultural understanding and appreciating the history of Chinese migration, this film also highlights the timeless importance of strong family values.

"Dear You (Chinese title: 给阿嬷的情书, 'A Love Letter to Grandma')" is a 2026 Chinese family drama directed by Lan Hongchun. It follows Xiaowei, a debt-ridden young man who travels to Thailand in search of his grandfather, only to uncover long-hidden family secrets through old remittance letters, or qiaopi (IMDb).

Praised for its heartfelt storytelling and authentic performances, many by non-professional actors, the film is primarily in the Teochew (Chaoshan) language, with some Mandarin and Thai dialogue. It stars Runqi Zheng, Sitong Li, Yantong Wang, Shaoqing Wu, Xiaohui Wang, Shuguang Zhao, Deru Li, Shuhao Li, Usha Seamkhum, Peisong Fang, and Pengsheng Zheng.

President Victor Lim of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) said during a July 24 media conference at Kamuning Bakery Café, “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.”

The movie is primarily in the Teochew language, which shares many similarities with the Hokkien language spoken by many members of the Filipino-Chinese community. It has English subtitles, however.

The FFCCCII is proud to support this landmark film by sponsoring two advance screenings: August 5, Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. at SM Mall of Asia IMAX, and August 8, Saturday, 6:30 p.m. at SM North EDSA Cinema 3. Both nights are held in cooperation with the Anvil Business Club, one of the more than 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce and business organizations that comprise the Federation, whose members come from Aparri to Tawi-Tawi.

Lim said the Federation is 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.

One recent example of this commitment was FFCCCII’s

invitation last month to popular vertical drama actress Zhang Yingfei of the hit series, Linda Walker, to visit the Philippines. Through her visit, the federation hoped to inspire the Filipino youth to value education, perseverance, and hard work in pursuing a better future.

“This advocacy reflects the spirit of our “Operation: Barrio Schools” program, through which the FFCCCII has donated more than 6,500 public school buildings to underserved communities throughout the country since 1961,” he said.