Toledo City Business Leaders Establish First Chamber of Commerce
In a significant development for the local economy, business leaders in Toledo City have officially formed the city's inaugural business chamber. This milestone marks a crucial step in organizing the private sector and enhancing coordination among enterprises across various industries.
Formal Organization and Leadership Election
The Toledo City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCCI) was formally established during a meeting held at the City Mayor's Office on January 14, 2026. This initiative was carried out in partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, ensuring alignment with national business standards and practices.
The gathering also featured the election of the chamber's first set of officers. Melanie C. Ng, the PCCI area vice president for the Visayas, led the discussions, clarified membership requirements, and oversaw the election process to ensure transparency and fairness.
Newly Elected Officers and Their Roles
Representatives from prominent companies spanning multiple sectors were selected to lead the TCCCI. Noel Cabahug from Therma Visayas Inc. was elected as the chamber's president, while Mark Vincent Israel of AboitizPower was appointed vice president for external affairs.
Other executive committee positions were filled by leaders from the finance, cooperative, and service sectors, creating a diverse leadership team poised to address various business needs.
Mission and Vision of the Chamber
President Noel Cabahug emphasized that the chamber will serve as a unified platform for businesses of all sizes. "This is an opportunity for all enterprises—large or small—to work together and contribute to initiatives that support local economic growth," he stated. The TCCCI aims to foster collaboration and drive initiatives that benefit the entire business community.
Broad Industry Representation on the Board
The TCCCI boasts a 13-member board composed of executives from key industries, including:
- Energy
- Finance
- Cooperatives
- Hospitality
- Other services
Notable members include representatives from Philippine National Bank, Carmen Copper Corp., MGen, The Ranch Resort, and Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative, among others. This diverse representation ensures that the chamber can effectively advocate for a wide range of business interests.
City Government Support and Future Outlook
Mayor Marjorie Perales expressed strong support for the new chamber, highlighting its potential to advance business development in Toledo City. She noted that the chamber will play a vital role in ensuring that small and medium enterprises are included in policy discussions and local growth programs.
The city government views the TCCCI as a key partner in promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, signaling a collaborative approach to future economic initiatives.
