A Pleasant evening!
It is an incredible honor and privilege to stand before you today as the newly elected National President of our esteemed organization. I am humbled and deeply grateful for the trust and confidence that you have placed in me to lead this dynamic organization at such an exciting and transformative time. This year’s theme: “Elevate and Adopt: Upholding Excellence in an Evolving World,” reverberates deeply as we navigate the complexities of our profession in a rapidly changing landscape.
Allow me to first and foremost, extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Guest of Honor and to all our special guests who grace this occasion with their presence, to our sponsors and partners whose unwavering support fuels our initiatives, to our dedicated officers, chairs and co-chairs, advisers both past and present, and members of the various committees who exemplify leadership and our loyal members who embody the spirit and vision of our organization. Together, we have built a strong foundation of excellence, and together as one, we will continue to grow.
Our theme for this year, “Elevate and Adopt: Upholding Excellence in an Evolving World,” reflects our association’s recognition of the rapidly changing and evolving landscape of commerce and industry, not only in the Philippines but world-wide. With the advent of advanced technology, shifting global markets, and ever-evolving regulations, the role of a Certified Public Accountant is even more relevant if not to say the least, critical than ever. We, as Certified Public Accountants in Commerce and Industry, are not only guardians of financial integrity but more so also architects of strategic decisions that shape the future of enterprises and business organizations.
To ensure we remain relevant and impactful, we are calling on each of you to join the leadership of this term, in the following key initiatives:
- Our 1973 original Articles of Incorporation and our 2011 Amended By-laws needs to be amended. An initiative started by our previous past presidents; we will make sure that we will finally be able to accomplish this term. The necessity to amend both the Articles of Incorporation and the Amended Bylaws is something we cannot delay any longer as there has been changes in laws and regulations that requires us to update and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. As our operations as a professional organization evolves, our structure, purposes have already changed and such necessitating updates to reflect these changes. We likewise, need to furtherly improve our governance practices and clarify roles and responsibilities to furtherly enhance and expedite decision-making processes. We will in the next days be consulting and informing you our past officers and present members and would seek your participation and support in this endeavor to ensure that our Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws remains adaptable, compliant and aligned with our Association’s mission, vision and goals.
- In the area of Professional Development, we will provide more opportunities for learning and growth. We, as we have done in the past, forge collaborations and cooperation with and amongst other organizations, institutions and individuals for seminars, webinars, trainings to empower our members with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an era of digital transformation and innovation. We will work with Regulators to keep our members updated with developments. We will give emphasis on trainings and improvements of skill sets and soft skills that our members who are practitioners in Commerce and Industry would find useful in their organizations.
- As Certified Public Accountants, we have the power to make a difference over and beyond the confines of the walls of our respective organizations. We will continue and improve on our projects and initiatives that promote financial literacy, mentor aspiring entrepreneurs and be able to contribute to the broader community through socially responsible initiatives. We have the power to touch lives with our projects, and touch lives we shall do.
- Our strength as a professional organization lies in the diversity and dynamism of our membership. We will work to expand our reach, bringing in new voices, talents and perspectives while fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration within our existing community. This is something that we hope will make us grow stronger.
- We will likewise continue to ensure that our organization’s operations will be a tuned to the needs of our members. We will pursue and continue initiatives focused on good governance, and ensuring our organization’s financial stability. Information is key and informed you will be through our social media accounts and various mediums and platforms on what is happening with our association.
The 2025 Leadership team is excited to invite all of you to actively participate in our upcoming activities, these events will hopefully serve as a platform for learning, networking and celebrating our shared achievements and growing together as a family and community.
- General Membership Meetings. Our avenue to connect, engage and collaborate with our fellow members in meaningful discussions and fellowships. Including webinars and seminars.
- The Annual National Convention. A gathering to discuss trends, best practices and strategies shaping our profession. A bonding opportunity as well.
- The International Convention. This is on its third year now. And we will plan and execute the same this year.
- And finally, the year-end- activities. This will be a celebration of our collective achievements and a thanksgiving of sort as well.
In all of these, we will keep you informed and will be seeking your active participation.
As I take on this leadership role, I am reminded of the incredible responsibility we carry as Certified Public Accountants. Let us continue to elevate our profession by upholding the highest standards of excellence while adapting to the demands and dictates of an ever-evolving world. I commit to foster consensus building within the leadership to ensure the active participation of most if not all of our members. I am fully aware that leadership is not a solitary endeavor – it is a shared responsibility. As I have said to my co-directors, I will adhere to the principle of “primus inter pares”, “first among equals”. I am committed to listening to your insights, learning from your experiences and working alongside you, all the members of the Leadership team and our members and will respect the opinions and contributions of all. Let us all answer this call to elevate and adapt. Let us be relentless in our pursuit of excellence in facing the challenges of an evolving world, and united in building a legacy that will inspire future generations of CPAs in Commerce and Industry.
Allow me to thank the Induction Committee, headed by Chair Flords Odulio and the Committee’s advisers, Past Presidents, Aphat Martinez and Anna Lizza Chua-Dycaico for an excellent and memorable event tonight. Thank you, EVP Marvin, ED Wennie and our Secretariat Kathlyn and the Board Members for your support. Special mention to my mother chapter, the Central Luzon Chapter for the overwhelming support and concern. Your presence tonight in full force will always be remembered. Maraming salamat po! To the Board of Directors, Chairs, Co-chairs and Advisers, past and present, maraming maraming salamat po.
I believe I have already said a mouthful. Again, thank you for your trust and confidence. Thank you for your dedication and partnership. Let us all make this year a year of transformative achievements and all for the glory of God!
Mabuhay ang ACPACI! Mabuhay po tayong lahat.
Maraming salamat po at Magandang gabi sa inyong lahat.