The Association of Certified Public Accountants in Commerce and Industry (ACPACI) celebrated a remarkable milestone with its 40th Annual National Convention, held from October 17 to 19, 2024, at the Henann Premier Coast Resort in Panglao, Bohol. Anchored on the theme "Transcend Beyond 50," the convention brought together over 90 delegates who participated actively in meaningful discussions, professional advancement, and fulfilling fellowship.
The event's preliminaries—comprising the Doxology, the Philippine National Anthem singing, and the CPA oath recitation—were led by Mr. Charlemagne Chua, Co-Chair of Professional Development. The event formally kicked off with a vibrant opening salvo featuring Bohol’s Sandugo Festival, which set an inspiring tone. Mr. Jubal Ayo, Overall Chair of the 40th ANC, officially declared the convention open, followed by Welcome Remarks from Ms. Anna Lissa Chua-Dycaico, the 2023 ACPACI President.
The program included messages from esteemed guests, such as Mr. Dexter Ortega, the FY2024-2025 PICPA VP for Commerce and Industry, a video message from the PICPA National President, Atty Roland Pondoc, and Ms. Catherine Guibone, who delivered a message on behalf of Mayor Edgardo Arcay. Hon. Noe Quiñanola, Chairman of the PRBOA, also addressed the delegates, emphasizing the critical role of CPAs in nation-building. Mr. Elano Marcelo, the 2024 ACPACI National President, encouraged participants to actively engage in the association.
A highlight of Day 1 was the keynote address by Hon. Heidi L. Mendoza, former Commissioner of the Commission on Audit. She spoke on "Navigating the Role of CPAs in Commerce & Industry for Nation Building," sharing insights that resonated deeply with attendees that led to discussions about the future of the profession. She was introduced by Mr. Marvin Madrigalejo, APCACI’s VP for Professional Development and Liaison Director of the 40th ANC.
Following the keynote address, tokens of appreciation were presented to various speakers, recognizing their support of the convention. The day culminated in a Fellowship Night hosted by Ms. Cecille Carandang, ACPACI’s Auditor, and Mr. Aphat Martinez, 2022 ACPACI President, providing a relaxed atmosphere for networking and camaraderie.
Day 2 featured a series of impactful sessions. The morning technical program commenced with a presentation from Mr. Gilbert Trinchera, a partner at KPMG Technology Consulting, who tackled the topic "Decoding Cybersecurity Breaches in the Private Sector." He was formally introduced by Mr. Noel Ang, VP for Community Development. The session was capped with the open forum moderated by Ms. Rowena Lemen, ACPACI VP for Operations.
Another technical session on "Implementing an Effective Hybrid Work Model: Benefits, Challenges, and Opportunities," was led by Mr. Aldo Zelig Tong, Chair of the Finance and Accounting Dept. of the Ateneo de Manila University. His presentation highlighted evolving workplace dynamics. He was introduced by Ms. Elaine de Guzman, ACPACI’s VP for Partnership with Professional Organizations and Stakeholders, and the session concluded with an open forum facilitated by Ms. Cecille Carandan, ACPACI’s Auditor.
Afternoon technical sessions continued with topics such as gender inclusivity and tax updates. Ms. Bernadette Cariaga, a gender equality and social inclusion specialist from USAID, discussed the topic, “Deciphering Gender Inclusivity in the Workplace.” She was introduced by Mr. Dan Navarro, a member of the ANC Committee. The open forum was moderated by Ms. Cathy Lopez, ACPACI’s Treasurer. The last technical session which dwelled on the topic, “Year-end Tax Reminders and Latest Tax Changes in 2024”, was conducted by Atty. Tristan Lopez, Tax Director at Deloitte Philippines, who was introduced by Mr. Al Casas, Chair of the Social Involvement Committee. The session ended with an engaging open forum facilitated by Mr. Marc John Guiab, Chair of the SOASP Committee.
The convention concluded with closing remarks from ACPACI EVP Atty. Aristeo Cruz, reflecting on the significance of the gathering and the collaborative spirit demonstrated by the delegates throughout the event.
Mr. Aphat C. Martinez, one of the advisers of the 40th ANC, served as the master of ceremonies for the two-day event. The other advisers of the ANC are Past Presidents, Ms. Connie Cadeliña and Ms. Fedna Parallag.
Day 3 was dedicated to cultural immersion, featuring a tour of the stunning island of Bohol, where delegates explored its famous tourist spots and experienced the region's natural beauty. The 40th ANC was not just a platform for professional development but also a celebration of the bond of unity and collaboration among ACPACIans, setting a promising tone for the future of ACPACI and the commerce and industry sector of the accountancy profession.
The 40th ANC was led by Mr. Jubal Ayo as Overall Chair, ACPACI President, Mr. Elano Marcelo, Executive Vice-President Atty. Aristeo Cruz, VP for Professional Development and Relevance Sustainability Marvin Madrigalejo as Liaison Director, ACPACI the Board of Directors and ANC Advisers Aphat Martinez, Connie Cadeliña, and Fedna Parallag.