Ramel Buncalan Takes Oath as New PCCI–Aklan President

By: Guillermo Sumbiling

Kalibo, Aklan — August 15, 2025. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)–Aklan welcomed its new set of officers and members during an induction ceremony held at the Vanyard Hotel, Kalibo. Mr. Ramel Buncalan formally took his oath as President, succeeding Engr. Lloyd Macahilig, and vowed to continue the Chamber’s strong tradition of service and advocacy for the Aklan business community.

The ceremony was graced by distinguished leaders from government and the private sector. Mayor Juris B. Sucro of Kalibo officiated the oath-taking of officers and emphasized in his address the critical role of the business community in shaping the town’s development. Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida, Regional Governor of PCCI Region 6, inducted the new members and underscored the historic ties between Aklan and Iloilo chambers, citing their shared commitment to advancing enterprise growth in Western Visayas.

Representing the Provincial Government, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Romeo Dalisay delivered the message of support on behalf of Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores. He lauded the Chamber’s contributions in strengthening Aklan’s investment climate and assured continued partnership with the provincial government.

Adding prestige to the event was the presence of fellow Chamber presidents from Iloilo, Boracay, and Guimaras, who expressed strong solidarity with the new leadership of PCCI–Aklan. Their attendance signified regional unity in promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Mr. Buncalan, in his inaugural address, acknowledged the dedicated leadership of immediate past president Engr. Lloyd Macahilig and pledged to build upon this legacy by championing policies that protect and promote the interests of the local business sector. He also highlighted PCCI–Aklan’s mission to serve as the voice of private enterprise in the province, bridging partnerships between government and industry, and fostering an environment conducive to inclusive economic development.

Other elected officers were:

Vice President for Internak Affairs: Ricardo Agravante Jr

Vice President for External Affairs: Engr. Miguel Lantaca

Corporate Secretary: Jun N. Aguirre

Treasurer: Arlyn Conanan

Auditor: Bart T. Baylon

Chairman of the Board: Engr Loyd Macahilig

Board of Trustees:

Josefina Lucille Dela Cruz

Jose Mari Aldecoa

John Guidon Dea Cruz

Henry Villanueva

Cedric Sazon

Rick Timothy Salas

Marlene Queda

Cyril Morales

For over two decades, PCCI–Aklan has been the leading private sector representative in the province, advocating for entrepreneurs, professionals, and industries that power Aklan’s economy. With the new team in place under Mr. Buncalan’s stewardship, the Chamber is poised to strengthen its role as a catalyst for growth and a reliable partner in shaping the future of Aklan’s business landscape.