After several years of taking their oath of office in simple ceremonies before Gov. Josie Mendoza-dela Cruz, the new set of officers of BCCI this year, took their oath of office in an elaborate ceremony before the top echelons of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The affair, which coincided with the visit of Sen. Mar Roxas to Bulacan, was held last April 30, 2005 at 6:00 PM, at the BarCIE International Center, City of Malolos.

It was considered a milestone by local chamber members because the top officers of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry were all present. PCCI President Donald G. Dee was first guest speaker. Chairman of the Board Sergio Ortiz-Luis officiated the oath to the new set of officers. Chairman Emeritus Miguel Varela, VP for SME Dr. Raul Hernandez and VP for Agriculture, William Co, also attended the Induction Ceremonies.

Senator Mar Roxas delivered the keynote address, where the former trade secretary emphasized the need for Filipino producers to conquer the Chinese market. This, he said, "is a challenge as well as an opportunity that must be seized if we truly desire to penetrate the world market." That's why there is a need to empower of small industries and enable them to be at a competitive position with goods that are made in China, more importantly to make them attractive to the Chinese market.

Gov. Josie dela Cruz highlighted the role of small entrepreneurs in churning the local economy especially in the countryside. Believing that entrepreneurship is a better alternative to employment and that this is Bulacan's best chance for economic recovery, she has focused her programs in helping MSME's grow through the Kasulong sa Kabuhayan, Tatak Bulakenyo and the establishment of the Bulacan Packaging Center.

The event turned to be a festive reunion among local government executives. Even non-political guests didn't pass the chance for a photo opportunity with the gentleman-Senator whose maternal grandmother hails from San Miguel, Bulacan.

Other local executives who attended the affair included Mayor Boy Cruz of Guiguinto, Mayor Evelyn Paulino of DRT, Mayor Anastacia Vistan of Plaridel, Mayor James de Jesus of Calumpit, Mayor Pop Buencamino of San Miguel, Mayor Zoilito Santiago of Obando, Mayor Ricky Meneses of Bulacan, Vice-Mayor Noel Sacay of Malolos and representatives from the local governments of Angat and Pandi, Bulacan. Also in full show of force were members of the various Rotary Clubs in Malolos and Guiguinto.

To lend support, the Department of Trade and Industry, through Ms. Zorina Aldana and Ms. Loides Castro graced the event. The Malolos Chorale Ensemble and Bulacan's young chanteuse Arianne Kazemi rendered musical entertainment numbers.