On March 21, 2026, the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants – SLU Chapter, in partnership with the Department of Accountancy, held an event themed “Empowering Excellence: The JPIA Ivy Journey.” The program served as an orientation for Saint Louis University’s Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and Bachelor of Science in Management Accounting, welcoming high school students from both within and outside Baguio City. Held at the Devesse Lobby, the event gave participants an overview of the programs, highlighted their distinctions, outlined academic expectations, and showcased future opportunities. The orientation concluded with a campus tour, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the university’s facilities and their respective functions.
With the technical discussions and insights of the esteemed speakers, it provided the participants with valuable and relevant information that can greatly support their decision-making in choosing the academic path they wish to pursue. The talk started off with Dr. Lorie Ann Barry’s overview and introduction of the Accountancy and Management Accounting as well as the opportunities they offer. Dr. Barry also highlighted the standards of each program such as the retention policy of BS Accountancy. Following this, Mr. Airixzel Rillera, JPIA-SLU Vice President, took the stage and discussed the enrollment guide, the university’s learning environment, and the factors that make Saint Louis University stand out among other institutions in Baguio City. He also highlighted SLU’s consistent performance in the CPA Licensure Examinations by presenting its roster of topnotchers over the years. To conclude the session, Atty. Hazzle Lynn Macabiog delivered a talk on college preparation, expectations, and motivation for aspiring students. She underscored the importance of being academically and mentally prepared for the demands of the program, while also emphasizing how these degrees can open opportunities internationally.
Beyond the transfer of knowledge, the event embodied the value of binnadang, or community solidarity, as organizers, speakers, and student volunteers worked collectively to guide and support the participants. This spirit of cooperation was evident in the seamless flow of the program, the willingness of facilitators to assist students, and the shared commitment to empowering future Louisian accountants. Through binnadang, the activity became more than just an orientation—it transformed into a collaborative effort to uplift and inspire, reflecting a culture where success is achieved through mutual help and collective responsibility.
To provide the participants with a clearer view of the campus, the program was followed by a campus tour that introduced them to the university’s key facilities and environment. The tour started at the Devesse Lobby and continued to the AVR, Library, Garden of Eden, Oval, and Amphitheater, allowing the students to become more familiar with the different spaces and their respective functions within the campus.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the event supported SDG 4: Quality Education by providing accessible, relevant, and high-quality information that empowered students to make informed academic choices. It also embodied SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through the strong collaboration between the JPIA–SLU Chapter and the Department of Accountancy, demonstrating how collective efforts can enhance educational outreach and impact. Moreover, the program reflected the CICM advocacy of Integrity of Creation by fostering a values-driven environment that promotes responsible decision-making, personal growth, and a deeper sense of purpose among aspiring students.
Overall, the orientation offered students a firsthand look at what studying Accountancy and Management Accounting at Saint Louis University entails. From the speakers’ insights to the campus tour, they were able to explore the programs, the environment, and the opportunities that set SLU apart. The event served as both a guide and an inspiration, giving students the knowledge and confidence to take the next step in shaping their future. (Article and Photos by the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants – SLU Chapter)
