The Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants – Saint Louis University Chapter (JPIA–SLU) demonstrated academic excellence at the 28th National Mid-Year Convention of the National Federation of Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants, held on 12 to 15 February 2026, at Club Balai Isabel Hotel in Talisay. Competing under the banner of Region 1 and the Cordillera Administrative Region, Team TRINITY represented the university in the Tax Case Study P and A Taxathon Arena, one of the convention’s premier academic competitions.
Team TRINITY was composed of 4th year Bachelor of Science in Accountancy students John Trif L. Pacho, Khryssha Mae M. Julian, and Valerie Joy C. Sagayo. They were guided by their coach, Ernestine Navarro, CPA, a faculty member of the Department of Accountancy. Their participation reflected both individual competence and the strong academic foundation nurtured by the university.
The competition commenced on the first day, 12 February, with the afternoon written analysis. Teams were given three hours to examine a complex tax case, determine key issues, apply relevant tax laws and regulations, and formulate well-supported conclusions and recommendations. The challenge required technical proficiency, analytical depth, sound judgment, and effective teamwork. Team TRINITY demonstrated unity and discipline as they collaboratively structured a comprehensive and cohesive analysis within the limited timeframe.
On the second day, 13 February, the Top 5 finalists were announced at 6:00 in the morning. Team TRINITY had already prepared their presentation prior to the announcement, reflecting readiness and determination. After securing a spot in the top 5, the team then proceeded to the Oral Defense at 8 AM. TEAM Trinity, excelling in presentation skills, delivered and defended their findings before the judges’ questions, demonstrating mastery and professionalism.
During the Awarding Ceremony on 14 February, Team TRINITY achieved Overall 1st Runner Up in the Tax Case Study P and A Taxathon Arena. They were also recognized as Best in Oral Defense Group, affirming their excellence in defending their analysis before the panel. In addition, John Trif L. Pacho received the distinguished Best Presenter Award, highlighting his exceptional articulation, confidence, and command of the presentation.
Beyond the team’s accomplishment, the National Federation of Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants – Region 1 and Cordillera Administrative Region (NFJPIA-R1CAR) was declared Champion in the Overall Academic League and 1st Runner Up in the Overall Competition, underscoring the region’s collective excellence and strong academic performance at the national level.
The participation of Team TRINITY strongly embodied the CICM advocacy of Integrity of Creation. By upholding honesty, fairness, and accountability in their written analysis and oral defense, the team demonstrated ethical responsibility that is fundamental in the accounting profession. Their disciplined preparation, respect for due process, and commitment to truthful representation of facts reflected integrity in both action and intention.
Furthermore, this engagement advanced key Sustainable Development Goals. It supported Quality Education SDG 4 by providing a rigorous academic platform that enhanced technical competence, critical thinking, and communication skills. It promoted Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions SDG 16 by reinforcing integrity, transparency, and ethical reasoning within a structured academic competition. It also strengthened Partnerships for the Goals SDG 17 by fostering collaboration among students, faculty mentors, regional councils, and the national federation.
Through JPIA–SLU’s commitment to empowering its members, the organization provided a meaningful platform for these BSAc students to compete and excel at the national level. Guided by strong mentorship and united by shared purpose, Team TRINITY exemplified the Louisian spirit of excellence and proved that preparation, integrity, and confidence pave the way for success on the national stage. (Article and Photos by JPIA-SLU)
