Carlos Chan, owner of Liwayway Holdings Company Limited, the company behind the popular Oishi brand, was awarded the China Friendship Award at a ceremony in Beijing on April 22.
Chan, a Filipino businessman, was recognized for his contributions to China’s economic development and his role in fostering strong business ties between China and the Philippines.
Representatives from China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS) and Wan Li Jun, chairperson of the All China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, presented the award.
The China Friendship Award is a prestigious honor given to foreign experts who have made significant contributions to China’s social and economic progress. This year, 50 individuals received the award, and Chan’s recognition highlights the vital role Liwayway Holdings has played in China’s growth.
Established in 1946, Liwayway Holdings began as a marketing company in the Philippines. Under Chan’s leadership, the company expanded its operations to include food production, with the Oishi brand becoming a household name in the Philippines.
In 1993, recognizing the potential of the Chinese market, Liwayway opened its first factory in Shanghai, becoming one of the first foreign-owned companies to manufacture goods specifically for Chinese consumers.
Oishi’s success in China can be attributed to its focus on adapting to local tastes and preferences while maintaining high-quality standards. The brand is not only known for its delicious snacks but also for its commitment to social responsibility initiatives, making it a model for corporate behavior in China.
“Oishi established its first factory in Shanghai City in 1993. I am a witness, participant, and beneficiary of China’s open-door policy,” Chan said at the ceremony.
“Over the past 31 years, Oishi has closely followed the pulse of the Chinese market, seizing opportunities as they arise.”
Chan’s achievement is a testament to the success that can be achieved through collaboration and a shared vision for prosperity.