Cebu Gov. Pam: Accountants Help Build Trust That Drives Nation-Building
CEBU — Behind every audit and financial statement is something bigger than numbers: public trust. That was the message of Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro to accountants who gathered in Cebu on Sept. 24.
More than 700 accountants from across the country attended the 26th Association of Certified Public Accountants in Public Practice (ACPAPP) Annual National Convention. The governor said the work of accountants, and the trust they help build in public and private transactions, is essential to nation-building and economic development.
"Every financial statement you examine, every audit you conduct, and every professional opinion you issue contributes to something essential, not just to government, but to any institution — and that is trust," Baricuatro said.
Why it matters for Cebu
Baricuatro said transparency, accountability, and sound financial management are crucial to strengthening public institutions and attracting investments. She said accountants play a key role in ensuring credible financial information and responsible decision-making.
She also cited the transparency and accountability measures implemented by her administration. "Whether we are in the public or in the private sector, trust is something we must constantly work to earn," she said.
The governor added that government cannot build a strong economy alone. "We need professionals like you who help businesses grow responsibly, institutions remain accountable, and investors make informed decisions," she said.
Looking at Cebu's own economy, she told the delegates: "As Cebu continues to attract investments and expand its economy, your role becomes even more important."
A profession in transition
The two-day convention carries the theme "Empowered to Lead, Committed to Serve." It brings together CPAs and other accounting and business professionals for continuing professional development, knowledge-sharing, and networking.
ACPAPP, a professional organization of CPAs engaged in public accounting and external auditing, is led by national president Cesar Faustino Ravalo Jr. He said technological innovation and artificial intelligence have transformed the profession, requiring CPAs to continuously upgrade their skills.
"The profession is moving forward, but we must move forward with it," Ravalo said.
Despite the changes, he said the profession's core values remain: competence, integrity, professional judgment, and commitment to serve.
Useful info
Event: 26th ACPAPP Annual National Convention
Theme: "Empowered to Lead, Committed to Serve"
Duration: Two days, with delegates gathering in Cebu on Sept. 24
Attendees: More than 700 accountants from across the country
Source: Capitol PIO, Cebu Provincial Government (Photos by FE)
QUICK SUMMARY
What: Gov. Pamela Baricuatro's remarks on accountants' role in building trust, at the 26th ACPAPP Annual National Convention
Where: Cebu
When: Sept. 24 (two-day convention)
Impact on Visayas: The governor linked accountants' work to transparency, accountability, and Cebu's efforts to attract investments. No specific project or budget was announced.
Source: Capitol PIO