Iloilo city: The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo chapter marked its 120th anniversary by recognizing individuals who laid the groundwork for the robust economic landscape of Iloilo through its Captain of the Industry Award. "The Captain of the Industry Award is positioned as one of the most prestigious recognitions for a founder or business leader who is a wealth creator and a societal benefactor, ensuring that their financial success translates into lasting positive value for the community and country," PCCI Iloilo chairperson Felix Tiu said in a ceremony on Monday evening.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu stated that the awardees embody excellence, integrity and innovative spirit that PCCI seeks to inspire. The award is reserved for an individual whose vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment have not only built a successful enterprise but also profoundly shaped the economic landscape of Iloilo. "They are the frontrunner, a benchmark for success and a source of pride for the entire Iloilo business community," Tiu added.
The distinguished awardees included Emil Anthony Po for agriculture; Dr. Mary Lou Lacson-Arcelo for education; Raymundo Robles for food services; Tomas Tan for hardware; Dr. Vicente Villareal for healthcare; Romeo Go for hospitality; Alfonso Uy for manufacturing; Dr. Rogelio Florete for media; Bernadette Tiu for real estate; and Jan Andrew Po for transportation. A posthumous award was also given to Rodolfo Tiu for wholesale and Que Hua Pho for general merchandise.
PCCI Iloilo president Fulbert Woo remarked that the 120th year celebration of the chamber is a "historic milestone that honors the collective efforts of Iloilo's business leaders, innovators, workers, and institutions over more than a century." It recognizes its 120 years of enterprise and innovation, private-public collaboration, supporting industries, and shaping the direction of Iloilo's economy. He emphasized the chamber's embrace of four guiding principles: Inclusivity, innovation, inspiration, and impact.
"From entrepreneurs, to our youth, to our farmers, to communities in need, our goal has always been to create ripples, even the small, to go beyond events and awards. Impact means the legacy of the PCCI," Woo said in his message. PCCI was organized by a group of business people in 1905, led by Don Esteban dela Rama, a prominent sugar magnate and owner of the shipping line called Dela Rama Steamship Co.
