Leadership – Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA)

Since its establishment in 1994, the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Arizona (PACCA) has been unwavering in its dedication to empowering entrepreneurs and nurturing their professional and business growth. Over the years, the chamber has played a pivotal role in shaping the local business landscape, orchestrating impactful workshops, seminar and networking events.

Founded by a group of Filipino American small business owners in 1994, PACCA operates with elected Officers and Board Members serving voluntarily for a two-year term. The primary objective of the Chamber is to promote, foster and enhance business relationships among its members and the broader business community, both locally and globally. Notably, the stalwart pioneers and former Presidents still actively involved are Leonardo Aromin, (Lifetime member), Priscilla Chesler and Ethel Luzario.

In 2020, PACCA underwent a significant transformation and rebuilding process, experiencing remarkable growth in its membership. Under the leadership of Edward Lago, the organization not only expanded its member base but also actively engaged in dynamic events. Notably, in February 2021, PACCA became a member and an integral part of the Coalition of Filipino American Chambers of Commerce (COFACC), further solidifying its presence in the business community.

A significant milestone occurred on April 19, 2023, when Ethel Luzario, a board member and past president, spearheaded the idea of establishing PACCA’s first chapter in Tucson. The initiative was undertaken by PACCA’s organizing team composed of President Lago and Board Members Ethel Luzario and Ron Smith, and PACCA successfully established this new chapter. This strategic expansion reflects PACCA’s commitment to broadening its reach and coverage of services. The organization looks forward to building more chapters in the near future as part of its continuous efforts to expand and serve the community effectively.