The Chamber of Commerce of Iloilo has played a pivotal role in the economy of Region VI, Philippines, since the early 1900s. It emerged as a central hub for trade, education, culture, and industry, contributing significantly to the region’s economic activity, especially during the Pre-American Colonial Era when international trading was well-established.
The Chamber’s formation was driven by influential entities, including multinational companies like Ker & Company and prominent families such as Elizade, Yulo, Zulueta, Javelosa, Lopez, and Villanueva, who were instrumental in its early operations.
A major milestone occurred on July 1, 1978, when President Ferdinand Marcos issued Letter of Instruction No. 780, merging the Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines with the Philippine Chamber of Industry. This led to the establishment of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iloilo, Inc., officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 17, 1980, under the leadership of Mr. Ramon Hechanova.
The organization continued to evolve, undergoing a name change on March 11, 2014, to become the “Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Iloilo Chapter, Inc.” This renaming aligned with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reflecting a broader affiliation.
Throughout its evolution, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Iloilo Chapter, Inc. has functioned as a key partner in the growth and development of both Iloilo City and Iloilo Province. It supports various aspects of economic, social, and cultural progress in the region, maintaining its commitment as the “Voice of Business” and “Inspiring Investment through Innovation and Inclusivity.”
Contact number
(303) 569 3495
support@pcciiloilo.com
Address
New Iloilo Provincial Capitol Building, Muelle Loney St, Iloilo City Proper, Iloilo City, 5000 Iloilo
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PCCI Iloilo Cares is a community-focused program dedicated to improving lives through impactful outreach initiatives. It addresses local needs with projects in education, health and wellness, and environmental conservation, fostering collaboration with NGOs, government agencies, and local partners. By mobilizing resources, organizing volunteer efforts, and supporting essential programs, PCCI Iloilo Cares strengthens community bonds and creates meaningful, lasting change in the region.
The Iloilo Business Expo (ILOBEX) is a key program initiated during the pandemic to provide micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with access to malls and retail spaces, facilitating their economic recovery and growth. The program creates opportunities for local businesses to showcase their products, expand their market reach, and forge valuable partnerships. In 2024, ILOBEX received the Presidential Recognition for Outstanding Development Partner for its vital role in improving market access, contributing significantly to the economic development and resilience of Iloilo’s business community.
The PCCI Iloilo Impact Initiative is a strategic program launched by the PCCI Iloilo to foster collaboration between businesses and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with a focus on sustainable community development. Guided by the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this initiative aims to create impactful partnerships, develop innovative programs, and influence policies that drive economic and social progress in the region.
The Ilonggo Christmas Parol of Hope is a community-driven project that began in 2019 to provide economic opportunities and foster inclusivity through parol-making. Partnering with the Iloilo City Government and BJMP Iloilo, the program supports persons deprived of liberty while funding essential initiatives like healthcare, education, and disaster relief. With over 2,000 parols produced annually, it has become a beacon of hope, unity, and sustainable community development in Iloilo.
The PCCI Iloilo Academy is a groundbreaking program by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iloilo chapter, dedicated to building the capacity of MSMEs for sustained competitiveness in a rapidly evolving economy. Through customized training initiatives, including the flagship Entrepreneurship Incubation Program, the Academy equips both emerging and seasoned entrepreneurs with essential skills and knowledge. By emphasizing knowledge sharing and digital transformation, it empowers MSMEs to enhance their operations, driving Iloilo’s economic growth and innovation
The Iloilo Business Week, organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo chapter, is a flagship initiative commonly celebrated during Iloilo City Charter Day, designed to drive economic growth and entrepreneurial innovation in the region. This vibrant program brings together MSMEs, industry leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs to collaborate, learn, and grow. With activities highlighting local products, skills development, networking opportunities, and industry trends, Iloilo Business Week serves as a catalyst for regional business excellence and sustainability.
Fresh Finds by PCCI Iloilo adopts a “Farm to Market” concept, connecting local farmers and producers directly to consumers by showcasing fresh, locally sourced products. Through curated events in the metro and digital promotions, the program aims to link consumers with the best of Iloilo’s homegrown businesses, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing the visibility of emerging brands. By bridging the gap between local agriculture and the market, Fresh Finds fosters a stronger, more resilient economy, offering healthier, farm-fresh options for the community.
The Ilonggo Entrepreneur Awards, organized by PCCI Iloilo, celebrates outstanding Ilonggo entrepreneurs who have demonstrated remarkable achievements and made significant contributions to the local business landscape. The awards feature categories such as Aspiring Ilonggo Entrepreneur, Young Ilonggo Entrepreneur, and the prestigious Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year. This program underscores PCCI Iloilo’s commitment to recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit that drives economic growth and community development, while also inspiring the youth to embrace business as a path to purpose and positive impact in the region.
PCCI Connect is a dynamic program by PCCI Iloilo designed to forge partnerships, empower business representations, and foster sectoral collaboration. Through a series of mixers and networking events, the program brings together entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to share insights, explore synergies, and strengthen business relationships. By providing a platform for meaningful exchanges, PCCI Connect empowers local businesses to expand their networks, engage in collaborative opportunities, and drive growth within their respective sectors.
What’s Up Western Visayas is a premier business conference aimed at fostering collaboration and sparking meaningful discussions on the latest trends and opportunities across the Region 6 provinces. Designed to bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals, the program serves as a dynamic platform for sharing knowledge, exploring emerging trends, and forging partnerships that drive regional growth. By providing insights into the evolving business landscape, What’s Up Western Visayas empowers participants to navigate challenges, seize new opportunities, and contribute to the continued economic development of the region.
The INSYNC Program of PCCI Iloilo, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at accelerating start-up growth by bridging gaps between emerging ventures and established businesses. It facilitates strategic partnerships with key agencies like DOST Region 6, providing start-ups with essential resources such as free onboarding and market access. The program also offers targeted training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to enhance business skills and expand market reach. By integrating start-ups into the broader business ecosystem, INSYNC fosters innovation, drives economic growth, and supports sustainable development in Iloilo.
The Iloilo Tax Congress is a program by PCCI Iloilo, developed in partnership with accounting firms and accountants’ groups, to promote tax education and awareness among the business community. It offers regular seminars and activities to provide updates on tax compliance, new regulations, and strategies for informed decision-making. Through expert-led discussions and networking opportunities, the program aims to address business concerns and foster sustainable solutions for long-term growth and compliance.
Businesserye is an innovative online program launched by PCCI-Iloilo to highlight the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of Ilonggo entrepreneurs. Through a series of digital episodes, the program goes beyond showcasing products, offering inspiring success stories, practical insights, and motivational content from local business leaders. Businesserye aims to empower and inspire both aspiring and established entrepreneurs by providing valuable lessons drawn from the experiences of Ilonggo entrepreneurs, fostering growth and innovation in the local business community.
PCCI Iloilo’s hosting of the 33rd Visayas Area Business Conference successfully brought together over 500 attendees from across the country to explore the crucial themes of empowering businesses, fostering growth through innovation, and enhancing the quality of life in local communities. The conference featured a dynamic mix of plenary sessions, a business expo, a golf tournament, brand activations, and a gastronomy festival, providing an ideal platform for networking and idea exchange. Industry leaders shared valuable insights on innovation and collaboration, driving impactful discussions that contributed to the event’s success in promoting regional business growth.