‘Dear You’ reflects Asian sentiment

By Isabella Cuartero

The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), led by President Victor Lim, sponsored an advance screening of “Dear You” at the SM Mall of Asia IMAX Theater last Aug. 5.

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. The film explores love, sacrifice, and the overseas Chinese experience. (Source: IMDb)

FFCCCII President Victor Lim said the inspirational film not only narrates the struggles of migrant Chinese in Southeast Asia but also reflects the heroism of millions of OFWs who support their families and the Philippine economy.

Presented by the Anvil Business Club in partnership with the FFCCCII, “Dear You” tells the story of the overseas Chinese experience between Thailand and southern China, featuring themes of family, sacrifice, resilience and hope.

Lim described the film as “a touching narrative of family, sacrifice, resilience, and hope” and said its message could resonate with Filipinos.

“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,” Lim said.

One of the film’s striking lines is: “If she does not know Chinese, how will she know her roots?”

The moon’s symbolism of longing and reunion resonates deeply with Chinese audiences. “Dear You” opens on a lighter note: a debt-ridden grandson travels to Thailand to seek help from his supposedly wealthy grandfather. His humorous journey ultimately reveals a poignant family history of love, friendship and sacrifice. (Source: The World of Chinese)