ILOILO City – The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Iloilo (PCCI-Iloilo) is celebrating its 120th founding anniversary by recognizing business leaders who helped shape the province’s economic landscape, underscoring the deep-rooted culture of Ilonggo entrepreneurship that has sustained the chamber for more than a century.
Rather than treating the milestone as a routine commemoration, PCCI-Iloilo is using the occasion to spotlight the legacy of visionary entrepreneurs whose work defined Iloilo’s growth across generations.
PCCI-Iloilo chairman Felix Tiu said this year’s honorees represent the true character of Iloilo’s business community.
“Many of them may not have Ilonggo-sounding surnames, but they were born here, they grew up here, and they built their businesses here,” Tiu said. “Their success stories are part of Iloilo’s growth, and it is only right that we honor what they have contributed to our economy.”
Tiu added that the celebration aims to reinforce the continuity of this entrepreneurial heritage.
“We want to show how far Iloilo has come because of its entrepreneurs,” he said. “Our goal is not only to celebrate them but also to inspire the next generation to continue this tradition of excellence.”
He noted that the chamber’s 120-year history — beginning with early leaders Raymundo Melliza (1904–1908) and Walter Smith (1918–1923) — reflects its ability to withstand wars, economic shifts, and modernization while remaining one of the strongest and oldest business institutions in the country.
“For 120 years, the chamber existed because Ilonggo businessmen understood the value of helping each other. That cooperation is the reason Iloilo continues to move forward,” Tiu said.
As part of the anniversary celebration, PCCI-Iloilo will confer its highest recognition, the Captain of the Industry Award, on distinguished business leaders from various sectors.
The awarding ceremony is set for December 8, 2025.
2025 PCCI–Iloilo Captain of the Industry Awardees
* Emil Anthony Po – Agriculture
* Dr. Mary Lou Lacson-Arcelo – Education
* Raymundo Robles – Food Services
* Tomas Tan – Hardware
* Dr. Vicente Villareal – Healthcare
* Romeo Go – Hospitality
* Alfonso Uy – Manufacturing
* Dr. Rogelio Florete – Media
* Posthumous: Rodolfo Tiu – Wholesale
* Posthumous: Que Hua Pho – General Merchandise
* Bernadette Tiu – Real Estate
* Jan Andrew Po – Transportation
Other Awards
* Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year
* Young Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year
* Aspiring Entrepreneur of the Year/PN
