The Association of Certified Public Accountants in Commerce and Industry (ACPACI) successfully held its 2nd General Membership Meeting (GMM) for 2025, gathering members, officers, and stakeholders for an afternoon of learning and collaboration. With the theme “Elevate and Adapt: Upholding Excellence in an Evolving World,” the event underscored ACPACI’s commitment to relevance, excellence, and professional growth in today’s evolving business landscape.
The meeting was formally opened and facilitated by Ms. Meljorie “Mel” A. Cruz, ACPACI’s 2025 Vice President for Partnerships, who served as Master of Ceremonies and guided the program with poise and professionalism.
The program commenced with the doxology, the singing of the National Anthem, and the Oath of CPAs, led by Mr. Charlemagne P. Chua, ACPACI Co-Chair for Professional Development and Relevance Sustainability, setting a solemn and meaningful tone for the meeting.
In her Welcome Remarks, Ms. Maria Nerissa A. Rosales, Vice President for Professional Development and Relevance Sustainability, highlighted the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. This was followed by ACPACI President, Atty. Aristeo R. Cruz, who delivered the President’s Message, sharing key organizational updates and reaffirming ACPACI’s mission to empower CPAs in the face of emerging challenges.
The meeting featured three timely and insightful technical sessions. The first, “Purposeful by Design: Creating a Life of Meaning, Momentum, and Connection,” was presented by the Guest of Honor, Ms. Stephanie Alcala-Escareal, following a formal introduction by Ms. Catherine E. Lopez, ACPACI Auditor. The session was concluded with an interactive open forum moderated by Ms. Cecil A. Carandang, Vice President for Operations.
The second technical session, “Occupational Fraud 101: Understanding, Preventing, and Detecting Occupational Fraud in the Workplace,” was delivered by Mr. Paul Ryan M. Balon, CPA, CMA (USA), CIA, CSCA. He was introduced by Mr. Lujer P. Danao, Vice President for Membership Development, Retention & Chapter Affiliations. The subsequent discussion was moderated by Mr. Isagani B. Bobis, ACPACI Co-Chair for Professional Development and Relevance Sustainability.
The third technical session, “Automation in Finance and Accounting: Streamlining Processes and Improving Efficiency,” was lectured by Ms. Doris Aura B. Pastoriza, who was introduced by Ms. Ester Rachel M. Sy-Carvajal, ACPACI Chair for the 41st Annual National Convention. The open forum was moderated by Ms. Ofelia P. Oroceo, Vice President for Community Development.
A key highlight of the event was the induction of new ACPACI members, led by Mr. Lujer P. Danao, Vice President for Membership Development, Retention & Chapter Affiliations, together with President Atty. Aristeo R. Cruz, marking another milestone in the organization’s continued growth.
ACPACI extended its heartfelt appreciation to QNE Philippines, exclusive co-presenter for 2024 and 2025, for its steadfast support of the professional development initiatives. The meeting closed with announcements on upcoming ACPACI programs and activities, followed by remarks from Executive Vice President, Mr. Marvin L. Madrigalejo. The event successfully reaffirmed ACPACI’s commitment to equipping CPAs to elevate, adapt, and lead with excellence in a constantly evolving professional landscape.