Regarding the story of A'Ping, the author does not want to elaborate too much here, but feels some words are like a fishbone in the throat, uncomfortable until spoken, and it is necessary to write something.
For this A'Ping, this person called "Chinese," Philippine society has developed serious negative emotions, even leading to the xenophobic tendencies that many people worry about.
Those who have lived in the Philippines for a long time will find that in recent years, Filipinos' views on Chinese people have changed. The author believes that this is probably due to political frictions, coupled with the Western media's ulterior motives, exaggerating and sensationalizing any issues, and at the same time, communication is extremely convenient, Filipinos have a mobile phone each, good news stays indoors, bad news travels a thousand miles.
However, upon further reflection, the actions of some Chinese in the Philippines in recent years, involving drugs, gambling, ticket tearing, kidnapping, have ruined the good reputation that the old Chinese overseas had built over many years, even making fellow Chinese afraid of these people, let alone what Filipinos might think?
Early Chinese immigrants to the Philippines were either forced to move to Nanyang or came to seek refuge with relatives, everyone was poor and destitute, even struggling to eat a meal. However, nowadays, more people come in pursuit of wealth, hoping to get rich overnight.
Perhaps the times have changed, and people's mindsets have changed too. But what the author wants to say is, we need to have the spirit of "no pain, no gain," but also remember to keep a low profile.
Many people in the Philippines initially got involved in gray industries or non-compliant activities, so they understand the importance of keeping a low profile. As the old Chinese overseas always say, when making money on someone else's land, one must always keep a low profile.
Now, the story of A'Ping, whether she is really "Chinese"? Whether she is involved in "online gambling" (POGO)? Whether involved in fraud, human trafficking? We are all spectators, and those on stage are all actors. But these issues will ultimately be repeatedly used as topics and materials by people.
However, as spectators, we should also think. The nail that sticks out gets hammered down, being too conspicuous can lead to problems.
Perhaps no matter the era, keeping a low profile is the foundation for overseas Chinese to establish themselves.
Finally, let me share some recent remarks from a Chinese foreign spokesperson.
Chinese law prohibits all forms of gambling. The Chinese government strictly cracks down on Chinese citizens going abroad to engage in the gambling industry, including offshore gambling and other online gambling activities.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has repeatedly stated that the Chinese government consistently requires overseas Chinese citizens to comply with local laws and regulations, never shields Chinese citizens' illegal and criminal activities abroad, supports local judicial authorities in handling them according to law.
And reminds compatriots abroad to comply with local laws and regulations, respect local customs and habits, be mindful of personal conduct, not engage in activities inconsistent with their visa types, avoid illegal activities, not to inconvenience themselves, nor tarnish the national image.
(Originally published in "Philippine Business Daily", author Yan Shao)
