A popular proverb says that “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." In this sense, we have taken many steps towards moving away from our plastic-filled legacy, from banning single-use plastics such as straws in certain cities to encouraging the use of recyclable materials from the private sector.
With age comes wisdom. This is scientifically supported by the maturity of the human brain's frontal lobe around the age of 25. The frontal lobe is the part of the brain responsible for complex decision-making and behavior regulation. It was around this age that I recognized the critical importance of financial responsibility.
We often hear of certain traits or values that define us as Filipinos. From being known for our hospitality and congeniality, to our grit and resilience when faced with hard times. As we navigate uncertain global political and economic landscapes, I’d like to highlight one of the Filipino values closest to my heart: Bayanihan.
As mid-market businesses in the Philippines gear up to compete on the global stage, a significant change must be made in the business landscape. To achieve parity with international competitors, mid-market businesses in the Philippines must focus on three critical areas: brand development, people investment, and sustainability.
Picture this scenario: A real estate developer wins a bid to convert a large swath of forested land into a housing project. On the surface, this seems like a win-win. The housing shortage gets addressed, jobs are created, and the economy gets a boost. But beneath this apparent victory lies a cost: the chirping birds, the rustling leaves, and the communities intertwined with this land’s history are at risk of vanishing. These environmental and social costs often go unnoticed. As accountants, we can put a spotlight on these hidden costs through the practice of green accounting.
The Philippines has recognized the importance of building our human capital as a pathway for economic opportunity. In 2015, the Philippines, together with 192 other UN member states, committed to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The SDGs, also referred to as the Global Goals, consist of a set of goals including Quality Education based on underlying principles, including “education is a public good, of which the state is the duty bearer.”
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, accountants have often been confined to the stereotype of being solely data-driven professionals obsessed with numbers. However, as the demands of the profession shift, so does the accountant's role.
When do you know you’ve won a client? Is it when the contract is signed? Or when the first invoice is paid?
