isffa los angeles chapter

ISSFA Los Angeles Chapter

(LA) hosted an evening to wel-

come the start of the holiday

season and to celebrate

ISFFA’s vision of Empower-

ment, Inspiration and Camara-

derie, at the Monterey House

Steakhouse on December 2,

2012. Officers, members and

guests came resplendent in

their purple and gold inspired

attires.

See page 4 for further details.

2012 Purple and Gold Holiday Gala

Flagship Program: MENTORING!!!

2012 was an exciting year for

ISFFAMentor, ISFFA’s Mentor-

ship Program. In an effort to

provide our members with ave-

nues to quickly gain the skills

that are critical to make them

successful in their chosen pro-

fession, ISFFA LA held an orien-

tation to new and potential

members in Los Angeles on

March 31, 2012. A follow-up

Speed Mentoring was held on

August 25, 2012.

See page 5 for further details.

The Official Publication of the ISFFA Los Angeles

Chapter

April 2013 Issue 5

The Next Generation

Inside this issue:

Message from National

Chairman

2

Message from LA Chap-

ter President

3

2012 Purple and Gold

Holiday Gala

4

ISFFA Flagship Program:

MENTORING!!!!

5

Students’ Corner:

Importance of Mentoring

and Networking

6-7

Personal Development

Workshops

8

ISFFA LA’s Key Social

Events

9-11

ISFFA LA’s Attendance

at ISFFA San Francisco

Chapter Grand

Launching

12

Achievements of ISFFA

Officers and Advisers

13

Community Service

Bulletin

14

2012 AICPA Accounting

Scholars Leadership

Workshop

15

Current

Leadership: ISFFA Los

Angeles Chapter

16-17

ISFFA LA’s Upcoming

Events for 2013 18

ISFFA Information 19

Annual Newsletter

“Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders Today”

“Always bear in mind

that your own

resolution to succeed

is more important

than any other.”

- Abraham Lincoln

Highlights

www.isffa.org

This year, we embrace the opportunity to further solidify and strengthen our outreach

to our community of members, mentors and sponsors. We are focused on growth and

engagement of those whom we serve. Our success will continue to be driven by the

strength of our mission, people and values, powered by our conviction and resolve to

uplift and support Filipinos in Finance and Accounting.

As we prepare ourselves for this year and the years to follow, I’d like to take a short trip

back to our beginnings, to remind ourselves of our history. ISFFA started as a dream, a

vision, to create an organization for Filipinos in Finance and Accounting, to level the

playing field, and give each and every one of us, a chance to be leaders, movers and

shakers in our community, and grow, not only as individuals, but as a people. This dream was fueled by a

strong passion to serve, coupled with a call to action and outreach to other Filipinos who shared the same

burning desire and wanted to make a difference.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the

only thing that ever has.” —Margaret Mead

We opened with the Los Angeles chapter, and today, we are proud to have quadrupled to 4 chapters, with

the addition of New York, San Francisco and most recently, Chicago. We are proud to have impassioned,

committed and dedicated leaders and board members join us and take pride and ownership of their individ-

ual chapters. We would like to thank the board members of the LA chapter, for their commitment to mem-

bership growth, development and engagement, and for successfully rolling out various programs and activi-

ties in 2012 to support our goals. Thank you for your time, dedication and leadership.

As we look into the New Year, I’d like to share with you our key initiatives for 2013:

1. Chapter Growth – open 2 new chapters each year

2. Talent Recognition – it’s time for our very own “Academy Awards for FFAs” (Filipinos in Finance and Ac-

counting.) We will recognize and honor Filipinos for their achievements, in leadership and community.

Our goal is to create awareness, to show support of our very own talent, and to inspire others.

3. Leadership and Mentorship Programs – educational and leadership programs will continue to be rolled

out at the chapter levels, and additional mentors will be invited to serve and give back.

4. Corporate Sponsorships – With four chapters and growing, we will be reaching out to our corporate part-

ners to fuel us to our next growth phase. We will look at closer engagements with our key sponsors and

partners.

I would like to thank our national board for their unwavering commitment to service in ISFFA. I also would

like to thank and honor all the other volunteers who have served in ISFFA, from inception to today. Their

contributions and selfless dedication, individually and collectively, have taken us to where we are today.

We thank you for your continued support and we really look forward to serving you this year and beyond.

Message from National Chairman

The Next Generation: ISFFA LA’s Official Annual Newsletter

Marylou Garcia

National Chairman

April 2013

www.isffa.org “Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders Today”

Greetings! We are so blessed in the year 2012 because we were able to continue

ISFFA’s commitment in launching and structuring strategic programs that benefited

our members and prospective members. All our events were successful because of the

guidance and support from our advisors and the unwavering support from the officers

of the National Board.

The events that we hosted in 2012 were:

Building your soft skills and resume writing;

Public Speaking seminar;

Summer beach party;

Collaboration with various organizations like participating at the Becker Career Fair, forming a partner-

ship with the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Group and held a display booth at the 2012 Filipino American Exposi-

tion; and,

Introduction of ISFFA to California State University—Northridge.

We have also volunteered in the various Filipino Community Social events like:

Celebration of the 118th Philippine Independence Day;

Philippine Consulate sponsored meeting headed by our Philippine President Benigno Aquino, III;

Welcome reception for the Philippine Secretary of Tourism; and,

Welcome reception for the US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas Jr.

2013 is looking even brighter and better and we are excited for the future. We lined up projects that will

continue to help us enhance our skills that would benefit not only us but also emerging professionals and

our Filipino students.

We encourage you to keep on supporting the noble intentions of this organization as we continue to grow

and inspire future generations.

Mabuhay and more power to ISFFA!!!

Message from LA Chapter President

The Next Generation: ISFFA LA’s Official Annual Newsletter

Beth Hacia

LA Chapter President

April 2013


2012 Purple and Gold Holiday Gala

By: Esperanza Arato,

ISFFA LA Vice President

The ISSFA Los Angeles Chapter hosted an evening to welcome the

start of the holiday season and to celebrate ISFFA’s vision of Empower-

ment, Inspiration and Camaraderie, at the Monterey House Steakhouse

on December 2, 2012. Officers, members, and guests came resplendent

in their purple and gold inspired attires. ISSFA’s founding leader and Chairman of the National Board, Ms.

Benel Se, started the festivities with a heartwarming welcome, a presen-

tation of the ISYFFA founders, the current members of the National

Board, and the Board’s newest member – Ms. MaryAnne Sabido-Werner.

LA Chapter Board

Benel Se

ISFFA Founders

National Board

Ms. Beth Hacia,

President of the LA

Chapter, welcomed

guests, introduced the

members of the LA

Board, and presented

the programs and

achievements of the

LA Chapter in 2012. Beth Hacia

The evening’s keynote speaker, Ms. Mary

Anne Sabido-Werner, a Partner in the Interna-

tional Tax Group of PricewaterhouseCoopers

Los Angeles, inspired by sharing how she over-

came the struggles of being a Filipina in public

accounting here in the United States, and how

she juggles the demands of the profession with

the equally demanding job of raising two kids.

MaryAnne Sabido-Werner

Colleen Abang

Carmelita O’Neil

Throughout the evening, Ms. Col-

leen Abang, master of ceremonies, kept

everyone entertained. Ms. Carmelita

O’Neil, an ISYFA founder, talked about

the AICPA Scholarship Program and en-

couraged student members to apply for

this opportunity. Everyone enjoyed deli-

cious food, and good company including

special guest Ms. Jannelle So. Raffle

prizes were given some to lucky

ISFFAns. There was a passionate tango.

Then there’s Gungnam-style dancing,

line dancing, and more dancing! The ISFFA family and friends

showed that they know how to have a

good time, and made the holiday gala

one memorable evening for everyone.

With Jannelle So

The Next Generation: ISFFA LA’s Official Annual Newsletter April 2013


2012 was an exciting year for ISFFAMentor, ISFFA’s Mentorship Program. As the pressures of today’s fast-changing socie-

ty and cut-throat professional competition loom on us, ISFFA’s board of directors sees the tremendous benefits of mentor-

ing, both professionally and

personally. In an effort to

provide our members with

avenues to quickly gain the

skills that are critical to

make them successful in

their chosen profession,

ISFFA held an orientation to

new and potential members

in Los Angeles on March 31,

2012. We introduced to our

new and potential members the objective of ISFFAMentor, which is to help emerging Filipinos in finance and accounting

gain access to mentors’ professional, business and leadership expertise to help them develop, grow and succeed in their

professional and personal pursuits. The mechanics of the program, together with the mentors and mentees’ commit-

ments, were also discussed. However, the most integral part of the orientation is our lively interaction with the new mem-

bers on how to make ISFFAMentor more successful to effectively and efficiently pass on the skills, knowledge and wisdom

to our members.

On August 25, 2012, the Los An-

geles chapter held its first ever

speed mentoring. Patterned to

the renowned speed dating, the

event was a venue on giving our

members quick access to and tips

from our accomplished mentors

coming from different industries.

It was a venue of great fun and a

sure way to learn from successful

people. In keeping with the

changing times, ISFFA acknowledges that today’s mentoring styles and relationships are quite different from those of the

past. The speed mentoring proved to us that mentoring can be provided in a less formal environment and takes less time

than it was traditionally expected.

Finally, on September 22, 2012, our Bay Area chapter held its first ever

Mentorship Orientation to its members. This is following our successful

launch of our Bay Area local chapter. The local chapter is introducing

various programs to entice more members to take advantage of this rare

opportunity of connecting with successful people. This is something that

we are excited about and our members should look out for in the near

future!

Mentoring has been proven to benefit not only the mentee but the mentor

as well. ISFFA is continuously making this program its main priority and

will provide more venues to its members to gain access to our successful

mentors. We invite everyone to consider getting involved in our ISFFAMentor program, either as a mentee or a mentor,

because mentoring is a tradition that withstood the test of time. We are excited on what 2013 can bring! Be a part of our

journey and be an ISFFAMentor today! For more information, please visit www.isffa.org.

ISFFA Flagship Program: MENTORING!!!


By: Soc Padua, ISFFA National Executive Director


The Challenge

In today’s economy, getting a job interview has become even more challenging and the job market is getting

really competitive. Simply having earned a degree, even with a great GPA, would not suffice anymore. Technical

skills are always important but usually only enough to get your foot in the door. So what can you do to make

yourself a more valuable candidate?

A Solution

Soft skills are very important to develop since these will actually help you pass the interview that will get you

your dream job. You can start developing soft skills through constant networking and seeking mentors. Net-

working is a continuous process of meeting people and finding connections that could be cultivated to build a

mutually-benefiting professional relationship. Mentoring is also a continuous process wherein, typically, one

person asks for another person’s advice and guidance. It is also possible that in some situations, these two

people will switch roles and take advantage of mentoring as a mutual learning relationship.

It’s Who You Know

Networking with professionals and keeping in contact with them provides you with a valuable resource for being

more informed and aware of how things really work in the business world. It is a key to success! Author and en-

trepreneur Robert Kiyosaki says, “The richest people in the world look for and build networks, everyone else

looks for work.” Be someone who meets people to find opportunities in life, not one who depend on opportuni-

ties to meet people.

Through networking, you get to know professionals who work in the field or firm you are interested in. Use them

as your resource—ask for their experiences, insights, advice, and perhaps their job referral. You never know

who, among the many people you meet, would be valuable connections for you regarding future opportunities.

Hence, the more people you know, the more chances you get of meeting people who will eventually make a real

difference in your life. I am not talking about people whose relationship with you will forever be purely profes-

sional; once you make a genuine connection with some of them, they can even be your good friend.

As a student, I did not immediately realize the importance of networking until I actually did it and got something

good out of it. It is important that students become aware of its importance as early as possible because more

time for networking allows for more opportunities to develop themselves and gain experience before they start

their careers. Students must get involved with on-campus student organizations—attend their meetings and pro-

fessional events. Students and professionals alike can stand out by going to professional events held by off-

campus organizations such as CalCPA, Ascend, ALPFA and, of course, ISFFA. All these organizations exist to pro-

vide you with resources for job opportunities and networking—take advantage of them. Just like choosing which

firm to work for, the important factor to consider when getting involved with organizations is how you connect

with the people within those organizations. The number of organizations would not really matter as long as you

make efficient use of your time by maintaining effective connections with professionals you connect with.

….continued to next page...

Students’ Corner: Importance of Mentoring

and Networking


By: Angelica Tolentino, ISFFA Student Ambassador for California State

University—Los Angeles


…continuation...

Learning is a Process

Mentoring is also important to consider. As previously mentioned, it is a mutual relationship. “No one learns as

much about a subject as one who is forced to teach it,” claims Peter Drucker, the Father of Modern Manage-

ment. Both people learn from each other. There is no age requirement or limit in mentoring. Mentoring can be

for peers, professional to student, and professional to professional.

Mentoring is like cultivating a relationship with a network connection on a much deeper or specific level. Men-

tors do not always have to be formally assigned or established through a program. You can get a mentor just by

simply expressing your desire to be mentored and as long as the other person is willing to help. You can ask to

be mentored about a variety of things: soft skills, interviewing techniques, networking, or even technical skills—

just politely ask. The key to an effective mentoring process is communication.

As a student, I began seeking mentors when I became more comfortable networking with professionals and ac-

tually found people whom I share common interests with. It is never too early to find a mentor; the earlier you

find one, the better. You can also have multiple mentors, perhaps for different aspects that you need guidance

with. It is important that what you request the mentor to help you with is something they are familiar or are ac-

tually good at. That is how you capitalize your mentor while also enabling them to share their knowledge and

expertise.

Act Now

To recap, networking and mentoring are continuous processes and mutual relationships. The sooner you start,

the sooner you can reap the benefits they give. The sooner you reap the benefits, the more you can get by the

time you need to utilize them, e.g. by the time you graduate or change jobs/career paths. ISFFA provides oppor-

tunities for you to network with other professionals, especially fellow Filipinos. The organization also provides its

own mentoring program, with mentors from different industries and different backgrounds. You should take ad-

vantage of the services the organization provides to help you develop personally and professionally.

Students’ Corner: Importance of Mentoring

and Networking


By: Angelica Tolentino, ISFFA Student Ambassador for California State

University—Los Angeles


“Building Your Soft Skills and Effective Resume Writing” Workshop

On March 31, 2012, ISFFA held a resume building and soft skills training led by Colleen Abang, Practice

Manager for Robert Half Management Resources and ISFFA National Vice Chairman. The workshop

was eventually followed by a session to reintroduce ISFFA’s Mentoring Program. These programs

aimed to develop the emerging professionals which is the cornerstone of ISFFA’s mission. The events

were attended by officers, students and professional members and non-members of the organization.

Personal Development Workshops


By: Rey Puentenegra

“Public Speaking” Workshop

ISFFA conducted a well attended public speaking workshop on August 25, 2012. In this time and envi-

ronment, public speaking has become an integral part of the business world and what a better way to

harness that skill than from the expert herself, Roberta Perry, Director of Toastmaster’s International.

The session was highly participated by the attendees, both students and professionals.


ISFFA Black and White Holiday Event 2011 and Installation of LA Chapter Board of Directors

On December 3, 2011, ISFFA had their Black & White Holiday Event and Installation of New Officers. Dan-

iel Ramos Espiritu, Deputy Consul General of the Philippine Consulate for Los Angeles, was present to administer the oath

of office for the newly appointed LA Chapter Board of Directors, namely, Rey Puentenegra - President, Lalaine Nocum - Vice

President, Pamela Ruetter - Secretary, Beth Hacia - Treasurer and Pina Flores – Public Relation Officer. It was indeed a

very aspiring night for all as Keynote Speaker, Ms. Tomoko Nagashima, a partner at PwC, shared her professional experi-

ences with the attendees.

Welcome Dinner for US Ambassador, Harry K. Thomas Jr.

ISFFA attended the Filipino Reception for the US Ambassador to the Philippines, his excellency Harry K. Thomas Jr. This

was held on May 10, 2012 in Carla’s Café at the CSB Studios, Studio City.

Welcome Dinner for Philippine Tourism Secretary, Ramon Jimenez Jr.

ISFFA joined the Welcome Dinner for Philippine Tourism Secretary, Ramon Jimenez Jr. This was held on May 14, 2012 at

the Hilton Hotel in Universal City, Hollywood.

ISFFA Los Angeles’ Key Social Events


By: Beth Hacia, ISFFA LA Chapter President


Philippine Independence Celebration in Los Angeles

ISFFA attended the Philippine Independence Celebration with guest of honor, Vice President Jejomar Binay. This was held

on June 2, 2012 at the LAX Hilton Hotel.

Dinner with His Excellency, President Ninoy Aquino

ISFFA attended a meeting with the Filipino community with his excellency, President Benigno S. Aquino III, on June 8, 2012

at the LAX Hilton Hotel.

The Beach Party at the Marina

ISFFA is not purely business. We also bond and know how to have fun. On August 4, 2012, we had our beach party at

Mother’s Beach, Marina del Rey. We had games, prizes and of course food. It was definitely FUN!!!





Phil-Am Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center

On September 8, 2012, ISSFA attended the Phil-am Expo at the LA Convention Center. There were several people who at-

tended the event including Philippine officials, business entrepreneurs, exhibitors, and real estate developers from the

Philippines. It is the longest-running and most successful Exposition in the Fil-am community.

Becker Accounting Career Fair

ISFFA participated in the Becker Accounting Career Fair on September 12, 2012 at Biltmore Hotel, Downtown Los Angeles.

The participants were anxious to gather information about our organization and some of them joined us. We brought bro-

chures and freebies to introduce ISFFA.

CSUN Information Session

ISFFA had an information session with the students of California State University - North Ridge on November 15, 2012 to

introduce ISFFA and its benefits to the students.





After months of scouring for Filipino professionals and students in the finance and accounting industries in the Bay Area, the International Society of

Filipinos in Finance and Accounting (ISFFA) San Francisco Chapter has made a debut with a launch on July 21, 2012 at the Wedgewood Banquet Cen-

ter in Burlingame. It was another milestone for ISFFA as the new chapter hosted a powerhouse and action-packed event showcasing the abundance of

accounting and finance talents in the Bay Area.

As registration and networking opened the day, the aisle to the banquet was turned into a gallery of

ISFFA’s sponsors including CalCPA, AICPA, Philippine News, Ernst and Young, KPMG, Becker, Robert

Half, Roger CPA Review, DeVry University, Asian Journal, Power ng Pinoy, Xoom, Moss Adams LLP,

PwC, Seasons Market Place, ADP, Efotobox, Chase, and Bank of America who extended their gener-

osity in supporting the organization and sharing their resources. The program proper commenced

with a solemn prayer led by ISFFA SF Chapter VP-Finance, Evy Torres, then a homage to the Philip-

pine and American national anthems, followed by a video montage of messages from ISFFA found-

ing advisors and ISFFA’s foundation and accomplishments through the years.

ISFFA Founding President, Benel Se-Liban welcomed and congratulated everyone for attending

the historical ISFFA launch in San Francisco. She said, “ Your attendance here today showed

that you care…you care not only about yourself but for others… and you care in elevating

the stature of Filipino professionals in finance and accounting. I commend our newly recruited

officers for their amazing talents and leaderships in bringing ISFFA to you. ISFFA is here, for

you to be inspired, to inspire and to “ Empower Tomorrow’s Leaders Today.” Susan Legaspi,

EO Accountancy Group and one of ISFFA’s founding advisors, followed suit and recapitulated

ISFFA’s core values and programs into three categories – reconnecting to our Filipino heritage;

improving management, leadership and mentorship skills; and extending community service.

Two other speakers, Dr. Manuel Valle and David Paraiso, filled up the rest of the morning with their presentations about Developing Leadership Skills

and the 2012 Job Market, respectively. Dr. Manuel Valle from the academe, shared his dissertation on the critical reflections of accounting profes-

sionals in the Bay Area while David Paraiso, Mentorship Director of the UCLA-PA Alumni, laid down a

career development roadmap after the 2008 global finance meltdown, wrapping up the morning

part of the program.

As guests were enjoying the buffet style lunch, they were entertained with the lovely voice of

Cherelei Ramirez who was part of the cast of the Broadway musical, Ms. Saigon. The presence of

Ms. Elenita Balatbat Cabrera, one of the Philippine’s most notable authors of accounting books,

likewise stirred the crowd. One of the highlights of the event took place thereafter - the oath taking

of the founding officers of the San Francisco chapter - who relentlessly dedicated their time, talent

and resources in putting together all the necessary elements to make the event possible. The oath

taking was administered by Deputy Consul Alfonso Ver, Milpitas Mayor Jose Estevez and Dr. Jennifer

Ong who wasted no time in giving their compelling talks on the importance of strong leadership qualities and their optimistic outlook on the political

and economic landscape of Filipinos in the local, nation-

al and global arena.

There was never was a dull moment especially when a

world-class speaker, Jeffrey Delgado (HGI Advisor),

stepped on the stage and pumped up everyone’s spirit

with his highly energetic speech on how to positively

impact the lives of others through empowerment and

creating extraordinary lives to maximize life’s fullest

potential.

The excitement escalated even further as the Mapping the Future panelists; Daniel Raval (Liberty Tax) , Don Pintor (PwC), Rianne Suico (MossAdams,

LLP), Cynthia Sanchez (Stanford U.) , James Diangson (BofA) and Timothy Lanigan (Devry) conquered the stage and navigated the audience through

their roadmaps to becoming successful in their respective life and career. Then the Building Soft Skills and Business Etiquette in a digital age panel-

ists; Bennie Lou Quevedo (Whittier Trust), Rick Gutierrez (WuHoover & Co.), Ty Kaprelian (Becker), Ame Ponce (Ernst & Young) and Arnold Pedrigal

(Power ng Pinoy ) shared some tools in developing leadership and communication to achieve success in the digital age.

The event concluded with closing remarks from the LA Chapter President, Rey Puentenegra and the newly inducted San Francis-

co Chapter President, Emily “Mai” Enriquez who shared their inspiring journeys as leaders of each chapter. Emily Enriquez capti-

vated the audience with her fervent sharing of the challenges and rewards in leading the formation of a new chapter; and her

appeal for support to take the organization to greater heights.

The event was hosted by Michi Valeriano and co-hosted by Susan Legaspi and Soc Padua, ISFFA Executive Directors. ISFFA is

thankful to all those who participated including the volunteers who shared their time and to contributors who shared their re-

sources to make such a wonderful event. ISFFA SF officers shared one voice that the path to greatness is rough but through

everyone’s continuous commitment and support, this road of endless possibilities leads to ISFFA as it occupies the Bay Area.

ISFFA LA’s Attendance at ISFFA San Francisco

Chapter Grand Launching


(As published in Asian Journal on August 8, 2012, except for the pictures )


MARIA BENEL SE-LIBAN, ISFFA FOUNDER AND NATIONAL CHAPTER TREASURER, HONORED NATIONALLY AS A FILIPINA OF DISTINCTION

In August 2011, the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) has selected our very own, MARIA BENEL SE-LIBAN, as a Most Influential

Filipina Woman in the United States. She was selected from nominations submitted from 19 states. She was honored, togeth-

er with other awardees, at a gala dinner awards celebration on October 14, 2011 at the Stanford Court Hotel in San Francisco.

The 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the United States Award™ is a celebration of leadership, inspiration and achieve-

ment. It honors Filipina women who are changing the face of power in American communities, organizations and the work-

place. This program is part of a larger game plan called "Pinay Power 2012" - a dream with a meaningful purpose - to double

the number of Filipina women leaders by 2012.

According Gloria T. Caoile, political director of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA) and co-chair of the FWN 100 Nationwide Search and

Selection Committee, “These influential Filipina American women are dynamic entrepreneurs, rising stars under 40, emerging builders and executives

who have moved through the ranks in large organizations, nonprofits and government agencies. They are powerful examples of women doing extraor-

dinary work who will motivate our youth and future leaders”.

FWN is a national nonprofit professional association founded to raise awareness of the activities, careers and status of women of Philippine ancestry

based in the United States. FWN's mission is to advance Filipina women in the U.S. workplace through programs and activities that enhance public

perceptions of Filipina women's capacities to lead, change biases against Filipina women's leadership abilities, and build the Filipina community's

pipeline of qualified leaders, to increase the odds that some will rise to the president position in all sectors.

Ms. Benel Se-Liban is an Audit Principal and head of the nonprofit practice group with Vasquez & Company, LLP, bringing 20 years of public account-

ing experience and specializing in the areas of nonprofit health care and community service.

Achievements of ISFFA Officers and Advisers


By: Pamela Irineo, ISFFA LA Chapter Secretary

SUSAN LEGASPI, FORMER ISFFA CHAIRMAN OF THE NATIONAL BOARD AND FOUNDING ADVISOR, RECIPIENT OF TRAILBLAZER AWARD

ISFFA’s Chairman of the Board and Founding Advisor SUSAN LEGASPI was among the five women who were honored by the

California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA) during its Women’s Leadership Forum held on June 10, 2011 at

Marriott Hotel Marina del Rey, CA.

The Trailblazer Award was presented solely by CalCPA. CalCPA selected the experienced and emerging leader recipients in

partnership with the American Institute of CPAs and the AICPA’s Women’s Initiatives Executive Committee. Criteria for both the

emerging leader and experienced leader categories included community or public service. Candidates for the emerging leader

award were also evaluated on their demonstration of leadership, contributions to the profession, creation and implementation

of unique initiatives and involvement with educational institutions. Additional criteria for the experienced leader category included authorship of arti-

cles, contributions to the CPA profession and mentorship of other professionals.

A native of the Philippines, Susan Legaspi worked her way up from secretary to management positions at two Big Four accounting firms and eventually

became CEO of Zuehls, Legaspi & Co., Los Angeles.

MR. WASHINGTON SYCIP, ISFFA HONORARY ADVISOR, INAUGURAL AWARDEE OF THE ASCEND PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

ASCEND, the premier non-profit professional association dedicated to the

leadership potential of Pan-Asians in global corporations, honored ISFFA’s

Honorary Advisor and international business leader, Mr. Washington

Sycip, its first ever Presidents Lifetime Achievement Award during its

2011 Leadership Lunch in New York City.

ASCEND’s President Jeffrey Chin presented the award at the Ascend Na-

tional Convention. "We are incredibly honored to present Mr. SyCip with a

token of our appreciation,” said Mr. Chin. " His visionary efforts continue

to give back to the Pan-Asian community.”

Washington SyCip is the founder of Philippine based financial services firm, SGV & Co, and is

internationally recognized as Pan-Asian business leader. He served as a founder at the Asian

Institute of Management, Senior Advisor of Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co., Member of the International Advisory Board of the American International

Group, and is the Chairman of over a dozen boards including the Asia Pacific Advisory Committee of the New York Stock Exchange.


ISFFA participates in the 2012 Annual Beach Walk: Walk for Health

On Saturday, October 20, 2012, ISFFA officers and members participated in the 2012 Annual

Beach Walk: Walk for Health fundraiser of The Children's Clinic, "Serving Children and Their Fami-

lies" at Long Beach CA. Over 1,000 participants joined together in the event which promotes

growing healthier communities in greater Long Beach.

Long Beach Vice Mayor Robert Garcia and The Children's Clinic, CEO, Dr. Elisa Nicholas, were on

hand to kick off the 1K Healthy Kids Run/Walk and the 5K Walk.

The Children's Clinic, "Serving Children and Their Families" at Long Beach CA is a non-profit fed-

erally qualified health care community clinic that provides health care services and programs to thousands of patients

including the insured, uninsured, underinsured, medically underserved, low-income and high risk populations in the

Southern California area.

ISFFA is proud to participate on this event as part of its community service involvement.

Flood relief drives for Typhoons Sendong and Saola

In 2011-2012, ISFFA initiated flood relief drives to help our “kababayans” back home in the Philippines who were affect-

ed by the flooding due to Typhoons Sending and Saola. ISFFA also worked with other Filipino organizations, such as

Gawak Kalinga and ANCOP USA, for the receipt of donations. All contributions are 100% tax deductible as ISFFA is a tax-

exempt organization under IRC code 501(c)(3).

Community Service Bulletin


By: Albert Ocampo, ISFFA LA Chapter Officer


Networking is difficult especially English is my second language. Self-expression is not as easy which hinders many people, including me, to

even try. With the help of Carmelita O’Neil, founding advisor of ISFFA, I was fortunate to be chosen as one of the three scho lars to go to the

2012 AICPA Accounting Scholars Leadership Workshop in North Carolina from May 31 to June 2, 2012. Here, I was given the chance to face

my fear of networking and eventually overcome it.

At first, I was scared because I was going to meet people I did not know in a place I have never

been to. I did not realize that during the flight to the event, I was already networking; the man

who sat beside me was also going to the same event. As we waited for the shuttle, I met more

people who were also participants in the event. We arrived at Washington Duke Inn, where the

workshop would be held, without even realizing I had already met ten people.

The Washington Duke Inn is a great venue to hold a

big seminar like the AICPA workshop. There were so

many places where people can network. As I looked

at the three-day agenda, I was overwhelmed on how

much networking I need to do. The event consisted of informational seminars that were really help-

ful for aspiring CPAs like us. There were also inspiring panel discussions with professionals of differ-

ent backgrounds and career paths. In between each item on the agenda were networking opportu-

nities to meet our fellow scholars or attending professionals. The group of scholars is so diverse

coming from different universities across the United States,

but everyone was very willing to meet new people.

On the first day, we were assigned into groups to work on

case studies that we need to present to the professionals on the third day. That night, I met with my

group mates and we worked on the presentation. Our objective was to create an idea on how minori-

ties would be more interested in accounting. Even during the first meeting, our group was already very

determined to do well that we brainstormed for two hours straight. I was actually surprised how much I

was able to contribute to the group.

On the second day, there was a two-hour networking event. That went smoothly because I did not

even realize it was over. The conversation with other people flowed naturally that I did not think I was

already networking. I actually thought to myself that when

the networking event started, I was just going to head back

to my room or wander around the place. But before I could

even finish my thoughts, someone introduced himself to me.

A few minutes passed and our group of two increased as

more people joined the conversation. I just let the conversa-

tion lead me to meeting other people. I was amazed on how

far I moved from where I initially sat to where I ended up by

the time the networking event was over. The comforting fact is that others did not mind I did not

speak English that well which made me feel more confident in networking. My fear of networking

was gone. Ideas flowed naturally as time went by during the event. After the networking event, I felt

exhausted but very much accomplished since I achieved a lot of things including getting out of my comfort zone.

I realized what I did during the event was a stepping stone in my career. Through-

out the three-day event, all of us scholars made a bond which will not be broken

by distance. With the help of social networking, we keep in touch to this day. The

workshop was a career-changing event for me. I would have not overcame my

fear of networking if ISFFA had not given me the opportunity to attend this event

and if I had not been brave enough to actually take advantage of it.

If you need more information about the AICPA Leadership Workshop, please con-

tact Carmelita O’neil, ISFFA’s Scholarship Coordinator, at

[email protected].

2012 AICPA Accounting Scholars Leadership

Workshop


By: Macrey Dabu, ISFFA Student Ambassador for California State

University—Northridge


mailto:[email protected]

Beth Hacia, President

Beth is currently the Chief Financial Officer of Lifeline Ambulance. She is also an entrepreneur and is the owner

of BGH Bookkeeping. Prior to establishing her own practice, Beth used to work for Gary Iskowitz & Co, LLP. She

also has significant work experience from different firms and companies of different roles. She graduated from

University of Baguio in the Philippines with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration.


Current Leadership: ISFFA Los Angeles Chapter

Esperanza (“Espie”) Arato, Vice President

Espie is the owner of Esperanza Accounting Solutions, Inc., and serves as consultant to different companies in

Los Angeles, including Controller to the Venbrook Group of Companies. She has over 18 years of public and pri-

vate accounting experience. Prior to founding her own company, she was Audit Manager for Beach Freeman Lim

and Cleland, LLP; Experienced Senior Associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers, and at E.C.Ortiz & Co. LLP, both in

Chicago. In the Philippines, she worked for various companies including CMG Life Insurance Company, Ginebra

San Miguel Inc., PhilamLife, and SGV&Co.

Espie is a licensed CPA in California, Illinois and in the Phils. She graduated magna cum laude with a BS in Ac-

countancy from the University of the East Manila, and has MBA credits from De La Salle University Manila.

Regina Tanedo, Vice President—Membership

Regina works at Luxe Hotels as Asst. Controller for both Rodeo Drive and Sunset Blvd. properties. She graduated

from the University of the Philippines with a BS Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Administration. She also worked

for the Regent and Marriott Hotels.

Lorenzo Moran, Vice President—Student Affairs

Lorenzo graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a bachelor in science degree in Business

Administration focused in Accountancy. Lorenzo studied abroad in Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan for about

one year. Lorenzo is a CPA licensed in California, and is part of the Education Outreach Committee of the

Southern California Chapter of the Healthcare Financial Management Association.

Lorenzo has 5 years of experience performing financial audits of publicly traded health care entities, not-for-profit

hospitals, foundations, and pension plans in California.

Pamela (“Pam”) Irineo, Secretary

Pam is an Internal Audit Manager at Tutor Perini Corporation. Prior to joining Tutor Perini, Pam worked for BDO

USA, LLP and SGV & Co in the Philippines. She graduated from De La Salle University in the Philippines with a

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting.


Elmer Pascual, Treasurer and Founding Officer

Elmer is an audit manager for Vasquez & Company, LLP. He has over ten years of accounting and auditing experi-

ence. His areas of expertise are in managing engagements of incurred cost audits, close-out audits and pre-award

audits of contracts with government agencies. He has also led financial and investigative audits involving waste

and abuse of government funds.

He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of California and in the Philippines. He has a Bachelor of

Science Degree in Accountancy from Polytechnic University of the Philippines.


Current Leadership: ISFFA Los Angeles Chapter

Albert “Al” Ocampo, Adviser and Founding Officer

Al is currently the Chief Financial Officer at The Children’s Clinic. He has over 20 years of public and private ac-

counting experience. Prior to joining The Children’s Clinic, Al was the Controller at El Proyecto del Barrio, Inc. Previ-

ously, Al was an Audit Principal at Quezada & Co. and an audit manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in San

Francisco, an audit manager with Ernst & Young, Vietnam and PricewaterhouseCoopers in Manila, Philippines. He

also worked as an Assistant Controller and a Financial Reporting Manager of publicly-listed companies.

Al is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of California and the Philippines.

Student Ambassadors

Pina Flores, Press Relations Officer (PRO)

Pina is currently the Division Controller at JRK Property Holdings. Prior to this, she was Senior Accountant for

Robertson Properties Group; Real Estate Accounting Manager for 99Cents Only Store; Portfolio Manager for GC

Enterprises LLC; and Assistant Controller for Up Front Inc.

Pina specializes in Commercial Real Estate Accounting, Multi-Family Housing / Government Accounting, Low-

Income Housing and Tax Credit Compliance, Construction and Development, Acquisition and Disposition, Sar-

banes-Oxley Compliance, and 1031 Tax Exchange.

Angelica Tolentino,

AVP—Social Media

Macrey Dabu,

AVP—Membership

Lance Leal,

AVP—Social Events

Matthew Calima,

AVP—Programs

Jodette Abarquez

AVP—Programs

CalState—Los Angeles CalState - Northridge CalState - Northridge CalState— Dominguez

Hills

CalState– Long Beach



ISFFA LA’s Upcoming Events for 2013

Below is the list of planned events for 2013, which may be subject to changes.

Further communication will be provided.

March 30 Community Service Event: Los Angeles Regional Food Bank (in con-

junction with Ascend LA Chapter)

April 27 Bridging the generation gap: “Succession Planning and the Emerg-

ing Generations”

(Host: Colleen Abang, Robert Half)

Speed Mentoring (Host: National Board)

May 18 Tax Planning (Host: Mike Hacia, Tax Partner at Wasserman, Gross-

man & Sloan LLP)

Financial Planning (Host: Marylou Garcia, Expense Reduction Anal-

ysis)

June 22 Leadership Training Seminar

Recommended Presentation: “Developing Your Leadership Skills”

(Host: National Board)

July 20 Beach Party

August 10 Casino Night (Host: National Board)

September 21 Bowling

October Community Service Event (in conjunction with The Children’s Clinic)

October 19 Public speaking workshop (in cooperation with Toastmaster Inter-

national)

December 7 Christmas Toy Drive

Holiday Party

December 14 Christmas Caroling



ISFFA Information

The International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting (ISFFA) is a California nonprofit public benefit corpora-

tion whose primary goal is to assist, educate, train and mentor emerging professionals, both domestically as well as

globally.

At ISFFA, we live by a set of shared values and adhere to the highest ideals of professionalism and ethical behavior in

the spirit of:

Integrity: We advocate the TRUTH and conduct ourselves at all times with utmost HONESTY.

Discipline: We strictly follow the code of Professional Responsibility and Conduct.

Commitment to Social Responsibility: We pledge to help and to strive to become vital members of society.

Solidarity: Together as ‘one body’, we will promote unity, harmony and teamwork.

ISFFA Mission Statement and Core Values

ISFFA National Officers

Marylou Garcia,

Chairman

Colleen Abang,

Vice-Chairman

Carmellita O-Neil,

Secretary

Rey Padilla, Memb.

Committee Co-Chair

Benel Se-Liban,

Treasurer

Susan Afan, Memb.

Committee Co-Chair

Edith Winterhalter,

Students Relations

Soc Padua,

Executive Director

MaryAnne Sabido-

Werner, Member

Address / Others

International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting

801 S. Grand Avenue, Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90017

ISFFA is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Website: www.isffa.org


isffa los angeles chapter - newsletter april 2013

Documents

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