<P> In the business community, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) plays an integral role in the economic, political and social development of the nation . Historically, the chamber can be traced back as early as the 1890s with the inauguration of the Cámara de Comercio de Filipinas . This organisation was composed mainly of Spanish companies such as the Compañia General de Tabacos de Filipinas, Fábrica de Cerveza San Miguel, and Elizalde y Cía, among other Spanish, and Philippine companies . </P> <P> During the first half of the 20th century commerce, and industrial trades with other Hispanic countries declined due to the United States administration of the Philippines . However, the resurgence of trade between Spain and Latin American nations had risen toward the closing of the century . 1998 marked the centennial celebration of Philippine independence, and opened a new opportunity for both Hispanic and Filipino businesses to reconnect their historic ties as trade partners . </P>

How did spain transform the filipino social life