Barbara 'Bambi' Gothong-Tan Breaks Barriers as First Female President of Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry
In a landmark ceremony on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Barbara "Bambi" Gothong-Tan officially assumed the role of president at the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), receiving the chamber flag from outgoing leader Mark Anthony Ynoc. This historic event marks the first time in the organization's six-decade history that a woman has taken the helm, signaling a new era of leadership for one of Cebu's most influential business groups.
A Trailblazing Entrepreneur Steps Up
Gothong-Tan, a prominent Cebuano entrepreneur, is the president and chairman of A.D. Gothong Manufacturing Corp., the company behind the widely recognized household brand Bambi Cooking Oil. Her business acumen has earned her significant accolades, including being named a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Philippines and receiving the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the 2024 Grand Chamber Awards of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
In her inaugural address, Gothong-Tan candidly admitted to initial apprehensions about the responsibility. "I don't know what I am getting myself into," she recalled saying upon her election. However, invoking the Cebuano phrase "Walay pugsanay, walay balibaray" (no forcing, but no refusing), she embraced the role with humility and resolve. She emphasized a commitment to servant leadership, stating that true leadership is measured by the lives uplifted and the lasting good created for the community, rather than personal recognition.
Building on a Legacy of Achievement
Gothong-Tan succeeds Mark Anthony Ynoc, whose tenure as the youngest MCCI president was marked by expanded trade missions to countries such as Russia and China, enhancing the chamber's international visibility. She acknowledged the high standards set by her predecessor, noting he left "big shoes to fill." In tribute, she remarked, "Because of your steady and visionary hand, our chamber has sailed beyond familiar shores."
Her own journey with MCCI began eight years ago, though her family has been associated with the chamber since its revival in 2004. Over the years, she witnessed "dynamic leaders, seasoned in wisdom and young in vision," whose unity and passion drove the chamber's successes.
Vision for the Future: Engagement and Growth
Looking ahead, Gothong-Tan outlined ambitious plans to strengthen member engagement and business development. Key initiatives include continuing long-standing programs and launching new ones, with a major milestone being the opening of MCCI's new office at Oakridge, facilitated by businessman Edmund Liu and his family.
In the coming months, the chamber will roll out a series of seminars, programs, and activities at this new location, reinforcing its role as a hub for collaboration between the private sector and government. Gothong-Tan pledged close coordination with the Mandaue City Government and national agencies to sustain growth and competitiveness, stating, "The story of the Mandaue Chamber is still being written, and I'm honored to write the next chapter with all of you."
Confidence from Government and Community
Mandaue Lone District Representative Emmarie "Lolypop" Ouano-Dizon expressed strong confidence in Gothong-Tan's leadership, predicting she will steer the chamber with clarity and purpose while advocating for policies that enable inclusive and sustainable growth. Ouano-Dizon assured the business community that the government remains a committed partner, emphasizing that economic growth and good governance are complementary goals.
This historic induction not only celebrates a personal achievement for Gothong-Tan but also represents a significant step forward for diversity and innovation in Philippine business leadership.
