The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) recently celebrated a pinnacle of its annual calendar, the Grand Chamber Awards 2025, an event that continues to stand as a beacon of excellence and inspiration for the Philippine business community. Held with grandeur, the ceremony not only honored outstanding achievements but also reinforced the vital connections between large corporations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and the academe.
A Legacy of Leadership and Vision
The event underscored the chamber's rich history of leadership. Attendees and honorees included a distinguished roster of past CCCI presidents such as Prudencio Gesta, Charles Kenneth Co, Melanie Ng, and Ma. Teresa Chan. Their collective legacy, alongside other former leaders like Hernan Streegan, Francis Monera, and Jun Muntuerto, has paved the way for the chamber's ongoing impact. The current stewardship under CCCI president Jay Yuvallos ensures this tradition of visionary leadership continues to drive Cebu's economic narrative forward.
Celebrating Excellence Across Sectors
At the heart of the Grand Chamber Awards is the recognition of diverse contributions to Cebu's economic landscape. A highlight was the conferment of the Innovation Leader of the Year award to Engineer Leonora Salvane, chairman of GT Cosmetics Manufacturing Inc., celebrating groundbreaking work in manufacturing. The event's success was orchestrated by Grand Chamber Awards 2025 chairman Edwin Ortiz, who worked alongside committee members like Enrison Benedicto.
The awards served a crucial purpose: positioning large, successful business entities as role models for growing small and medium industries. Furthermore, the academe was cited for developing relevant curricula that meet the evolving needs of the business sector, highlighting the essential link between education and industry.
A Platform for Local Products and Global Reach
Beyond the awards, the program was a dynamic marketplace. Small and medium-scale companies were given a platform to sell their local products, providing vital exposure and networking opportunities. The sense of community and pride was amplified by the Cebu Business Month (CBM) theme song, which was played across Cebu and even reached audiences abroad, symbolizing the event's wide resonance.
The gathering's significance was magnified by its draw, attracting visitors from across the Philippines and from international locations. Key figures from the hospitality and business sectors were in attendance, including Avinash Menon, Cleofe Albiso of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, and Josef Victor Chiongbian of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown. The collaborative spirit was also evident with Cebu Business Month head Maribel Melgar and other dedicated organizers like Robby Alugar ensuring the event's smooth execution.
As one reflects on the most meaningful programs of the Cebu Chamber, the Grand Chamber Awards will undoubtedly remain one of its most outstanding and impactful events. It successfully weaves together recognition, mentorship, local economic support, and global visibility, solidifying Cebu's position as a powerhouse of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in the Philippines.
