Stories of perseverance and purpose defined the afternoon during the heartfelt testimonial banquet dubbed as Panagdayaw: Commemorating Louisian CPAs’ Journey to Triumph, held on 05 July 2025 at the Audio-Visual Room (AVR), Saint Louis University (SLU) – Maryheights Campus. Organized by the Department of Accountancy in collaboration with the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA-SLU), the gathering paid tribute to the newly minted Louisian CPAs from the December 2024 and May 2025 board examinations.
The atmosphere was warm and celebratory, graced by friends, family, mentors, and esteemed guests, including representatives from the SLU Alumni Association – SAMCIS Chapter, R.G. Manabat & Co. (KPMG), SGV & Co. (Ernst & Young), Insights Financial Review Services Inc., and the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA).
Dean Glory I. Dela Peña of the School of Accountancy, Management, Computing, and Information Studies (SAMCIS) welcomed the attendees and encouraged the new CPAs to lead with perseverance, integrity, accountability, and service—to not simply master numbers, but give them meaning. Certificates of recognition were then presented by Ms. Noreen M. Lab-as and Atty. Rosemarie P. Areno.
Dr. Lerma B. Bautista led the Louisian CPA Pledge, affirming the passers’ commitment to SLU’s core values: Innovation, Competence, Christian Spirit, and Compassion. The PICPA Pledge, led by Ms. Florecita Cortez, added a sense of national pride and responsibility. With the pledges concluded, the program transitioned to celebration. Dr. Elvira Dacayo led an elegant wine toasting ceremony honoring the triumph of the new CPAs and setting the tone for the most poignant part of the evening—their testimonies.
Raw and impassioned, their narratives chronicled undergraduate struggles and the pressure of board exam preparations. Through stories steeped in courage and faith, the room brimmed with inspiration. Their voices reignited hope and reminded everyone that triumph lies not only in results, but in grace and grit along the way.
The most resonant testimonies came from Ellen Grace C. Teng-eg, a December 2024 passer, and Hazel Grail L. Aliba, a May 2025 passer. Ms. Teng-eg reminded everyone that hardship is part of the journey, and vulnerability is strength in disguise. She emphasized the importance of trusting God’s perfect timing and staying anchored to personal goals, saying, “Your feelings are valid—but always remember your goal. Also, trust in the Lord.” Ms. Aliba reflected on the accounting process itself, drawing from her STEM background: “It’s not just about the results. It’s about how you got there.” Her insight reminded the audience that real growth happens through the method, the grind, and the near meltdowns. Equally inspiring were those who succeeded through repeated board exam attempts, demonstrating that perseverance—not speed—defines achievement.
Invited companies also shared uplifting messages, encouraging the new CPAs to embrace exploration, broaden their professional horizons, and contribute meaningfully to the profession.
The Department of Accountancy, under the leadership of Sir Conrado B. Chan Jr., continues to carry out initiatives with the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants. This initiative exemplifies the university’s commitment to academic excellence and transformative education, aligned with the 4th Sustainable Development Goal: Quality Education. (Photos and Article by Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants – SLU Chapter)
