The other week, the only first-generation Chinese immigrant I know, Mr. Sy Chi Siong, celebrated his centennial. He stood up to greet guests, went up and down the stage, gave a speech, sang.
His Decalogue—10 spiritual and physical guidelines—for a hundred useful and contented years: fear God and keep His Commandments; maintain a good name; give without thought of reward; accept gracefully whatever God grants, whether plenty or wanting; live God’s plan; enjoy simple things—nature, fresh air, food, exercise; keep learning (and bargaining) for an alert mind; laugh often and long; have cheerful friends; forget useless numbers (age, weight, height).
Born in Fukien province, Chi Siong, 13, arrived in Manila in 1926 armed only with determination and a third grade education. These were enough to achieve a long and satisfying life, a flourishing business and a large and worthy clan.
Mr. Sy’s life is an exemplar in today’s Filipino Diaspora—for provincial poor moving to Manila; educated young escaping overseas. He first worked in an uncle’s trading business, a boy-of-all-trades, rising before dawn and working far into the night. After two years, Chi Siong’s parents insisted that he resume studies in China lest he lose his Chinese identity. He obeyed, but returned to venture on his own, opening a sari-sarì store.
Soon enough, his parents decided it was time for the young man to get married. Following tradition, they arranged a marriage with the demure Aurora Chua of Sibul, Bulacan. They were married in 1936 and in time were blessed with eight children. The Chuas were well-off owners of a soft drinks factory and with their help, the young couple’s grocery business expanded.
The Sy family had always been Buddhists but are now devout Christians. After remedies and prayers failed, Grandfather Sy agreed in desperation to allow a Christian Pastor to pray for the recovery of Father Sy. He got well and the family converted. The devotion has never wavered, giving the family comfort and strength. Once on a jeepney ride home, Chi Chiong was so exhausted and to the amazement of fellow passengers, sang “Onward Christian Soldiers” to revive himself. Today he is a revered Elder of the United Evangelical Church of the Philippines.
Life has not always been easy. World War II meant hardship. Then bandits massacred Aurora’s family. (The Sys narrowly escaped, having left for Manila earlier the same day.) Birch Tree Milk, the European product that Sy Chi Siong & Co. made a household name, became target of black propaganda. Through all adversities, the family triumphed. From small premises on Comercio Street, the company moved to Barraca and eventually to the company-owned seven-story building on Muelle de la Industria.
Testimonials attest to Mr. Sy’s faith; generosity to the needy; quiet support to church, education and other worthy causes. Sy Chi Siong’s adventure makes us understand better the Filipino-Chinese among us and inspires Filipinos, particularly those who are now leaving their native land for greener fields as the celebrator did when he was 13.
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