New President and Board of Directors at the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce
New President and Board of Directors at the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce
The Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce (CCPR) held the official swearing-in ceremony for Attorney Margaret Ramírez Báez as the new president of the business organization for the 2025–2026 term, marking a significant milestone in female leadership within the island’s business sector. During the event, the new Board of Directors and Committee Chairs also took office in the presence of distinguished members of both the public and private sectors.
“Presiding over the Chamber of Commerce is a role I undertake with great determination and a deep sense of responsibility and diligence. Like you, I recognize this institution as a catalyst for solutions to the issues facing our island and as the strongest advocate and representative of the private sector. For over two centuries, we have been the voice and action of private enterprise, supported by more than 30 affiliated associations working together with a common goal: to build a better Puerto Rico for all,” stated President Ramírez Báez during her address.
Influential leaders from the legislative and business sectors expressed their interest and commitment to the continuity of a new phase focused on strengthening Puerto Rico’s economy through collaborative leadership, the development of new initiatives, and the integration of various sectors. Among those present were Puerto Rico Secretary of State Hon. Rosachely Rivera Santana, House Speaker Hon. Carlos “Johnny” Méndez, and Senate Economic Development Committee Chairwoman Hon. Nitza Morán, among others. Also in attendance were members of the 2025–2026 CCPR Board of Directors, committee chairs, affiliated association leaders, special guests, and institutional sponsors.
“Today, more than ever, Puerto Rico needs us all. We must move forward with greater resolve, faith, and no discouragement. We face major challenges—economic, social, and structural—that require urgent attention, such as our energy system, the fiscal framework under which the island operates, and our shifting demographics. This year, our institution begins implementing a new Strategic Plan that outlines our work plan, centered on education, infrastructure, and ease of doing business. We will continue to strengthen our legislative and advocacy agenda, both locally and federally, through our Legislation Committee and FACES, with a focus on energy, education, reshoring, permitting processes, and the much-needed comprehensive tax reform, including the elimination of the harmful inventory tax,” emphasized Ramírez Báez.
“We will also continue representing Puerto Rico through trade missions to Spain, Colombia, and other countries, and through the first-ever Chamber Summit in February 2026. Our agenda is well thought-out and oriented toward fulfilling our mission of contributing to Puerto Rico’s economic renewal through meaningful action.”
CCPR Executive Director Attorney Liza M. García Vélez highlighted the importance of transformative leadership: “Having a woman at the helm symbolizes progress and a renewed vision for the organization. Our priority is to strengthen ties between the business sector, government, and society—generating opportunities that positively impact the quality of life for everyone in Puerto Rico. This new term represents both continuity and transformation. At CCPR, we reaffirm our commitment to serving as a bridge between the business community and Puerto Rican society, fostering development and constructive dialogue.”
The new Board of Directors, led by President Ramírez Báez, consists of a diverse team of professionals committed to advancing Puerto Rico’s business and multi-sectoral development. Members include:
Board of Directors 2025–2026
- Executive Committee
- First Vicepresident: Raúl Bustamante
- President elect: José Julio Aparicio -Laspina, Esq.
- Treasurer: CPA Carlos E. De Ángel-Ramírez
- Secretary: Eddie Ríos Gómez
- Executive Director: Liza M. García-Vélez, Esq.
Advisors to the President:
- Eng. Raúl Gayá-Nigaglioni, Advisor and Chair of the Past Presidents Council
- Dr. José Vázquez-Barquet, Past President
- Eng. José M. Izquierdo-Encarnación, Past President
Directors
- Second Vicepresident, Joanellis Fernández
- Third Vice President, Luz B. Otero Rivera
- Immediate Past President: Attorney Luis E. Pizarro-Otero
- Orlado Montañez Suárez
- Gladys Torres
- Liza M. Ortiz-Camacho, Esq.
- Wildalis Serra-Ortiz, Esq.
- Melvin Vega-Pérez
- Dra. Glorymar Rivera-Báez
- Rosita Alicea
- Roberto Alsina
- Mickey Espada-Medina
- Rodrigo Zavala-González
Affiliated Associations
- Made in Puerto Rico Association
- Puerto Rico Society of Certified Public Accountants
- Puerto Rico Hotel & Tourism Association
- Permanent Positions: Western Chamber of Commerce and Southern Chamber of Commerce of Puerto Rico
As the oldest business organization on the island and the voice of Puerto Rico’s private sector, the CCPR reaffirms its unwavering commitment to serve as a bridge between the business community and Puerto Rican society—fostering an environment of opportunity, growth, and constructive dialogue. Under the leadership of Attorney Margaret Ramírez Báez and her team, the Chamber will continue working for the prosperity and wellbeing of Puerto Rico.
Media Contact
Karen Garnik, APR, PRSA Fellow
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