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SGV was the official tabulator of the Miss Philippines Earth 2021 virtual pageant aired on 8 August. Miss Philippines Earth is an environmental advocacy-driven beauty pageant in which candidates and winners actively promote and get involved in the preservation of the environment and protection of Mother Earth through the 5R’s: Re-think, Reduce, Re-use, Recycle and Respect. Assurance Partner Mariecris N. Barbaso (MNB) led the SGV team that conducted an independent tabulation of scores cast by the judges. Completing the team were Assurance Senior Manager Crystal Aleli Cornell; Senior Associate Angelu Daphne Villanueva; Associates Arkangela Jerusha Tobes and Dian Michelle Luis; Consulting Senior Manager Elvin Mercader; Senior Associate Lucky Wilmar Cimatu; and Associates Edward Guevarra and Alyssa Tapican.MNB representing SGV at the Miss Philippines Earth programApart from a strong emphasis on environmental protection programs, the pageant showcases and promotes various tourist destinations in the Philippines. The pageant celebrated its 21st year, with the theme Colors of the Earth to highlight the vast and unique biodiversity of the country and encourage a positive outlook for the coming years amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over 2,500 SGVeans tuned in to the first-ever virtual SGV’s Got Talent competition on 23 July. The event was hosted by TV news anchor and journalist Tina Marasigan. SGV Chairman and Country Managing Partner Wilson P. Tan (WPT) delivered the opening remarks, thanking everyone for their hard work during FY21 and wishing all the finalists the best in their performances. The finalists of SGV’s Got Talent Year 9 during their performancesThe 14 finalists from different market groups presented showstopping performances centered on the theme Rise Up: Resilience Amidst Adversity. The competition’s panel of judges was composed of singer and theater actor Gian Magdangal; singer-songwriter and classically trained soprano Lara Maigue; singer and record producer Johnoy Danao; singer, dancer and model Sheree Bautista; and A-Team PH co-founder and dance director MJ Arda. The celebrity guests also prepared special musical numbers that wowed the audience. WPT, VCR and JOM with the top 3 finalists, Tina and celebrity judgesWPT and Vice Chair and Deputy Managing Partner Vivian C. Ruiz (VCR) then announced the top 3 winners. Consulting Associate Cole Mercado (RKC cluster) was declared the Grand Winner after his inspiring dance performance. Vocal contenders, Tax Associates Rodonna Borasca (MG7-SDS cluster) and Julia Bettina De Guia (FSO-JAB cluster) came in second and third, respectively. Apart from receiving cash prizes, they will also get a chance to perform at the SGV 75th Staff Anniversary celebration. Talent Leader Julie O. Mateo (JOM) announced the other finalists who made it into the Top 7 (in no particular order): Noreen Grace Vitug (MG6-EAP cluster), Jeemo Tabuzo (MG2-JFA cluster), Kimberly Gonzales (MG1-CVM cluster) and duo Madelene Dones and Diana Araracap (MG6-PBH cluster) who received consolation prizes. Congratulations to all our winners and finalists!

SGV’s Consulting Team, led by Consulting Partner Allan W. Ocho (AWO), were among the presenters at the ISACA Manila Virtual Conference. Speakers included Consulting Leader Rossana A. Fajardo (RAF), Senior Directors Aileen Uy and Alvin Manuel, and Directors Kristian Anthony Reyes and Ma. Isabel Herrera. They discussed EY’s Trust by Design methodology and SGV’s third-party risk management practice. They also provided an overview of program risk management, cybersecurity, governance, risk and compliance, internal audit and service organization controls.AWO with the presenters and organizing team of the ConferenceDuring the plenary session, RAF led a discussion on Transformative Leadership focused on creating long-term value by harnessing the power of people, technology and innovation. She noted that the pandemic has encouraged leaders to build greater trust in their organizations, setting a credible vision of the future and guidance on how that vision can be achieved. Trust also enables leaders to make bold strategic moves and seize opportunities in times of disruption. Lastly, she talked about purpose-driven leadership and encouraged participants to uphold their professional and personal values. RAF presenting at the ConferenceThe ISACA Manila Conference is an annual event developed for IT governance, risk management, assurance and security professionals. SGV’s and the Consulting team’s participation in the event helped to orient participants on the Firm’s services and solutions related to IT governance. The sessions concluded with a Q&A portion where the speakers addressed the participants’ questions. The event’s organizing team included Senior Associates Christine Karen Capili and Marigin Fidel, and Associate Ralph Crimuel Roxas.

CCaSS serves as Technical Adviser of 2021 Europa AwardsSGV’s Climate Change and Sustainability Services (CCaSS) Team, led by Partner Benjamin N. Villacorte (BNV) and Manager Diana Sadili, served as Technical Adviser in the development of the scoring framework for the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP)2021 Europa Awards. The Awards recognized organizations for their outstanding sustainability efforts and initiatives in line with global standards and the Philippine Development Plan. Organizations were nominated across six categories: Smart and Safe Mobility, Clean and Efficient Energy, Circular Economy, Sustainable Food and Nutrition, Green and Inclusive Financial Solutions, and Water Resource Management.BNV with ECCP Officers and Europa Award nomineesThe Team also served as the official tabulator of the awarding ceremony held last 11 June. The team conducted an independent tabulation of scores cast by the judges and the rankings of the finalists and winners of the Awards. The winners were chosen based on their sustainability strategy and culture, innovation, sustainability partnership and sustainability impact. To learn more about the Europa Awards, visit 2021 Europa Awards (eccp.com).BNV speaks at LCF CSR Conference and Expo Climate Change and Sustainability Services (CCaSS) Partner Benjamin N. Villacorte (BNV) led a session on creating long-term value to future-proof corporate social responsibility at the first-ever virtual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Conference and Expo hosted by the League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) last 8 July. With the theme Rebuilding Together with the Changing Landscape of CSR, the expo featured sessions on the role CSR plays in driving long-term integrated and sustainable social efforts in times of global crisis and beyond.BNV and host, Ron Cruz, at the CSR Conference and ExpoBNV discussed the need to future-proof a company’s CSR efforts, citing the recent shift in societal, investor and corporate leadership priorities. He explained how companies can redefine their corporate purpose through sustainable development founded on economic, environmental, social and governance factors. He then shared insights and case studies on how participants can build trust within their organizations and deliver long-term and integrated value to their stakeholders.CCaSS Associate Director presents at DOST-ITDI webinarClimate Change and Sustainability Services (CCaSS) Associate Director Diana Sadili was a resource speaker at a webinar on sustainability hosted by the Department of Science and Technology–Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST–ITDI) last 16 July. She spoke to members of the DOST’s Regional Food Innovation Center (FIC) project team and discussed sustainable food systems, sustainable innovation and relevant sustainability models and tools.Diana with participants of the webinarEEstablished in each region of the country, the DOST–FIC serves as a hub for food innovations, research and development, and support services, particularly on fresh produce and processed food. The FIC also aims to integrate sustainability and sustainable innovation into its operations and processes, helping reduce the impact of climate change.

The Talent and Climate Change and Sustainability Services (CCaSS) Teams were among the speakers at the 2021 American Chamber of Commerce Philippines Business Leadership Program (AmCham–BLP). The BLP is a 10-day program that provides selected students from different courses and universities across the country with an opportunity to interact with AmCham member companies and build their capabilities as future business leaders.Julia presenting at the programTalent Supervising Associate Julia-Anne Deypalan provided an overview of SGV, its services, structure and Purpose. She also discussed how the Firm has addressed and adapted to the disruptions caused by the pandemic, sharing how SGV is leveraging on digital platforms to encourage virtual employee engagement.BNV and Yna presenting at the programBNV and Senior Associate Yna Antipala then led a session on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues and sustainability. They discussed the factors that led to the increasing importance of sustainability. Emphasizing the key business drivers in sustainability reporting, they explained how the Firm helps companies track and report their ESG metrics. At the end of the session, they encouraged the participants to get involved in sustainability initiatives and help develop solutions that can address climate change.

The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants–Government Relations Committee (PICPA–GRC) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines–College of Accountancy and Finance (PUP–CAF), and the City Government of Mandaluyong recently conducted the Accounting for Non-Accountants – Batch 2 webinar series for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). SGV Global Compliance and Reporting (GCR) Leader and PICPA GRC Chair Sonia D. Segovia (SDS) led the webinar’s organizing team with GCR Partner Aaron C. Escartin (ACE), Senior Director Don Don T. Mojica, and Senior Associate Shaira Mae R. Jamolor.SDS with the speakers and participants at the webinarThe webinar’s speakers, who are mostly professors from PUP, discussed the basics of the accounting cycle, internal control for cash, payroll matters, and income/business tax compliance. The attendees found the program useful as it provided them with a comprehensive overview of fundamental concepts on setting up a successful business venture. Over 1,000 business owners from across the country attended the sessions, doubling the number of the participants from the webinar’s first batch in October-November 2020.

The Philippine Association of Realty Appraisers, Inc. (PARA) conducted a rerun of the webinar titled Expanding the Valuation/Appraisal Horizon last 10 July. Strategy and Transactions Partner Marie Stephanie Tan-Hamed (MTH) was among the speakers who led a discussion on Valuation for Financial Reporting. The other speakers shared insights on Philippine property market updates, property measurement standards, green building and sustainable design, and amending the Anti-Money Laundering Act. MTH with the other speakers and participants at the webinarMTH provided an overview of valuation concepts, appraisal methods and developments in Philippine Financial Reporting Standards (PFRS) on Fair Value Measurement. She then shared insights on how appraisers can properly issue fair value measurements in compliance with PFRS and the requirements on financial statements disclosures. 

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) organized the Briefing on CREATE Title XIII and VAT Updates on 13 July. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Atty. Wilma T. Eisma opened the session with a prayer. He then welcomed over 400 participants from Subic locators and organizations based in nearby provinces, including SGV Clark Head and Assurance Partner Jose Pepito E. Zabat (JEZ).MAA presenting at the briefingTax Partner Margaux A. Advincula (MAA) discussed the recently released Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE Act), specifically Title XIII. She provided VAT updates, particularly the ones introduced by Revenue Regulations No. 9-2021. SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato W. Lee III then delivered the closing remarks. The webinar was hosted by Engr. Panfilo S. Jurilla, SBMA Representative to the TWG-SIPP and CREATE and Head of the Business and Investment Department for Information and Communications Technology. Tax Associate Director Michael Ray Lapasaran, Senior Associates Maria Clara Theresa David and John Marti Duya, and Associate Brevin Perez were part of the organizing team.

On 30 June, SGV held the WS Centennial Celebration to mark the 100th birth anniversary of SGV Founder, Mr. Washington SyCip (WS). SGV Chairman and Country Managing Partner (CMP) Wilson P. Tan (WPT) delivered the opening remarks and welcomed guests, clients and Alumni Partners to the virtual celebration. The event premiered the Washington SyCip Purpose video that reflects on how Mr. SyCip’s journey has positively influenced generations of SGVeans. Prominent industry leaders and close friends of Mr. SyCip then shared personal stories about him, recounting the vital roles he played in their lives. WPT at the WS Centennial CelebrationSGV also prepared several special tokens to honor Mr. SyCip. The Firm unveiled a commemorative marker at the SGV Building I lobby as a tribute to his accomplishments. Available on Spotify, a podcast episode on his early life was produced in collaboration with Pumapodcast. The podcast includes interviews with former SGV CMP Carlos R. Alindada and Mr. SyCip’s biographer, Butch Dalisay. A revamped WS website found at www.washingtonsycip.org was also launched. Furthermore, work is underway on the 2nd edition of his 2009 biography titled Wash: Only a Bookkeeper in print and ebook formats to include a new chapter that focuses on his life from 2009 to 2017. SGV Leaders Vivian Ruiz, Martin Guantes and Noel Rabaja during the unveiling of the WS100 commemorative markerOther noteworthy initiatives presented during the Centennial event include educational programs in collaboration with the Synergeia and WS Family Foundations, tree-planting programs in cooperation with the Philippine Business for Social Progress to be deployed over 100 hectares of depleted land in Marikina and Cebu, and the Owlchievers Program which will recognize 100 outstanding students who embody Mr. SyCip’s values of integrity, excellence, professionalism, discipline and love for the country and the community. The celebration also featured renowned soloist, Rachelle Gerodias who performed some of Mr. SyCip’s favorite songs. The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth of Ang Misyon, led by Gerard Salonga, also paid tribute to Mr. SyCip with a medley of OPM songs. Ms. Vicky at the WS Centennial CelebrationTo close the centennial event Vicky SyCip-Herrera, Mr. SyCip’s daughter, shared a message on behalf of the SyCip family. The day also marked the culmination of the Washington SyCip: 100 days to 100 years posts on social media. Launched on 23 March, the countdown featured the accomplishments, personal milestones and inspirational quotations of Mr. SyCip. 

The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (PACC), in cooperation with the Philippine Consulate General in New York and the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), conducted the second and third sessions of the webinar series on Philippine investment opportunities and tax developments. Tax Partner Margaux A. Advincula (MAA), Tax Principal Betheena C. Dizon (BCD), and Philippine Tax Desk Senior Manager Michelle Arias participated in the sessions titled Corporate Tax and Incentives under CREATE Act and Individual Taxation and Estate Tax Amnesty. Other participants included representatives from the PACC, the Philippine Consulate General in New York, the DTI Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC), and investors to the Philippines. MAA, BCD, and Michelle with other speakers at the webinar’s second sessionPACC President Aureo A. Sales delivered the opening remarks during the second session. Special Trade Representative Nicanor S. Bautista of the PTIC then provided a brief discussion on the economic relations between the Philippines and the United States of America amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. He also presented relevant data on the Philippines’ surging economy and enhanced viability as an investment ground.Afterwards, Michelle discussed the corporate tax and incentives under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE Act). She explained the Act’s salient features, particularly the adjustments in corporate tax and other taxes and the rationalization of fiscal incentives, as well as the enhanced fiscal and non-fiscal incentives provided by Philippine law to prospective investors. BCD and Michelle with other speakers at the webinar’s third sessionThe third session began with opening remarks by PACC Chairman Michael Nierva and Political and Economic Officer of the Philippine Consulate General in New York Ricarte Abejuela III. BCD then led a discussion on the personal income tax regime under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. She also talked about the important principles on estate tax amnesty in the Philippines, including its coverage, immunities and privileges, amnesty period, and exceptions. PACC Executive Director Ledy Almadin was also present. MAA, BCD, Michelle, and Tax Senior Associates Maria Clara Theresa David and Albertson Otchengco were part of the webinars’ local organizing team.