The Bottomline
The official publication of PICPA Negros Oriental Chapter
Third quarter issue series of FY 2022-2023
Chicka-Chicka!
Feature articles and anything under the sun!
The Other Side of PICPAns
“The Other Side of PICPAns” showcases the “other side of an Accountant”, the passions, skills, talents and interests that give more color and balances life’s journey.
Archie May L. Mi-ot
Young Entrepreneur
Since he was still in high school, his family already had a farm with about 20-30 goats, and a pig fattener. At that time, the goal of establishing his family’s farm was just to be able to purchase a laptop that he and his sibling (also a CPA by the way) can use to make their school activities.
After he passed the CPA Board Exam, he worked in one of the biggest lending cooperatives in Dumaguete. As he was working, he realized that he could not sufficiently provide his family’s needs if he would only rely on his salary. As a man of vision, he listed all his goals in life, and eventually achieving it. Included in the “bucket list” is to establish a business, and that led him to the piggery business.
Eventually, in 2018, they decided to establish a piggery farm starting with 10 piglets. They have experienced ups and downs. Based on his experience, majority of start-up business always experience the “downs”.
With the help of his father, who is his partner in the farm business, they gradually increased the number of heads (number of pigs are more commonly referred to as “heads”) year by year. Today, as of 2023, they already have more than 150 heads, including piglets, sows, boars, and fatteners.
In their farm, they raised pigs from sows (mother pigs) to fatteners. The first phase is to ensure a healthy pregnancy of the sow, which takes about 112-114 days. The second phase is the birth of the piglets, and after birth, the nursery of piglets, which lasts 40 days.
The third phase is the fattening period, which lasts 4 months. The phases of a piggery business may seem simple to hear, but every phase has different challenges, risks, and problems encountered. Over time, the experiences from the various problems encountered taught him valuable lessons.
Being a CPA is stressful enough, but to some Accountapreneurs like Archie, they were able to manage their time well. His message to his fellow CPAs:
Being a CPA in the private sector and at the same time a young entrepreneur, it is indeed very hard to manage my time. Discipline and cooperation with my family are the keys to my success. Manage your schedules, and don’t forget to reward yourself. We accountants do not only balance financial statements; we also balance life.
To my fellow CPAs that want to have a business, study the field you want to enter into, and always start small and be ready to learn from every failure you experience. I cannot say that I have already succeeded in my business, but I am proud to say that my business is growing. I hope this quote will inspire you.
“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.”
– Henry David Thoreau
#ThrowbackThursday
Here are some archived throwback pics of PICPA NegOr yeaaars ago
Insta-worthy Restos in Dumaguete
Featured restaurants in Dumaguete City for the Quarter
Dumaguete City is a charming and vibrant city in Negros Oriental, Philippines. It is known for its friendly people, rich culture, and delicious food. If you are looking for some places to eat in Dumaguete that are not only tasty but also Instagram worthy, then this article is for you!
Here are some of the restaurants in Dumaguete that will make your mouth water and your feed pop:
1. Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries
This is a must-visit place for anyone with a sweet tooth. Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries is famous for its sans rival cake, a layered dessert made of buttercream, meringue, and chopped cashews. It also offers other pastries, such as silvanas, brazo de mercedes, and macarons. The place has a cozy and elegant ambiance, perfect for enjoying your dessert with a cup of coffee or tea. You can find Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries at San Jose St, Dumaguete.
If you are looking for a place to have breakfast or brunch, Buglas Isla Cafe is a great option. This cafe serves American-style dishes, such as pancakes, waffles, omelets, and bacon. It also has Filipino favorites, such as tapsilog, longsilog, and adobo. The cafe has a rustic and homey vibe, with wooden furniture and colorful decorations. You can also enjoy the view of the garden outside while eating your meal. Buglas Isla Cafe is located at Hibbard Ave, Dumaguete.
3. Arbour By Jan From Your Cooking Class
This is a hidden gem that offers Italian and French cuisine with a twist. Arbour By Jan From Your Cooking Class is run by Chef Jan from Your Cooking Class, a popular cooking school in Dumaguete. The restaurant serves dishes that are made with fresh and local ingredients, such as beetroot salad, scallops, shrimp pasta, and tiramisu. The restaurant has a minimalist and chic design, with white walls and wooden accents. You can also see Chef Jan preparing your food in the open kitchen. Arbour By Jan From Your Cooking Class is located at Hibbard Ave Extension Road 2nd Floor of Your Cooking Class Building.
This is one of the most popular restaurants in Dumaguete for its European and international cuisine. Casablanca Restaurant serves dishes that are hearty and flavorful, such as steaks, burgers, pizzas, salads, and soups. It also has a wide selection of drinks, such as wines, beers, cocktails, and juices. The restaurant has a spacious and elegant atmosphere, with high ceilings, chandeliers, and paintings. You can also enjoy live music every night at Casablanca Restaurant. It is located at Rizal Boulevard corner Silliman Avenue.
This is a new and trendy restaurant that offers pizza and international cuisine with a twist. Esturya serves pizzas that are thin-crust and wood-fired, with toppings that are inspired by different countries and cultures. Some of their unique flavors are Korean BBQ Chicken Pizza, Thai Chicken Pizza, Indian Curry Pizza, and Filipino Adobo Pizza. They also have other dishes, such as pasta, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. The restaurant has a modern and colorful design, with graffiti art on the walls and neon lights on the ceiling. You can also play board games or watch movies on their projector screen at Esturya. It is located at Silliman Avenue corner Katada Street.
Tourist Spots in Negros Oriental
Featured destinations in Negros Oriental for the Quarter
Are you looking for a fun and exciting destination for your next vacation? If so, you might want to consider Negros Oriental, where the fun starts here naturally! Negros Oriental is home to many natural wonders, cultural attractions, and adventure activities that will surely make your trip memorable. Here are some of the top tourist spots in Negros Oriental that you should not miss!
Apo Island is a small island about 30-45 minutes by boat from the coast of Zamboanguita in the mainland. This island promises majestic views of its marine sanctuary surrounding the island, where its coral reefs and diverse marine life is well protected. You can swim with sea turtles, along with the colorful fishes, sea cucumber, and a wide range of marine life species. Its coral reefs are so magical, that seeing it would make you feel like you are in a fairytale. You can also relax and enjoy the clear blue waters of Apo Island, hike to the lighthouse, or visit its fishing village.
The breathtaking Casaroro Falls are situated in Valencia, which is about 30 minutes' drive from Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental's capital. You must descend a lengthy, steep staircase that will challenge your stamina and endurance in order to reach the falls. But when you do, you'll be rewarded with a cool swim in the pool at the base of the falls, which is ringed by beautiful vegetation and rocks. Truly, “no pain, no gain” they say. If you want to get fit, and be rewarded with cool and relaxing water, Casaroro Falls is the right place for you.
During low tide, the Manjuyod White Sandbar—a long stretch of white sand—emerges from the water. Because of its resemblance to the well-known island, it is frequently referred to as the "Maldives of the Philippines." There are cottages available for rent on the sandbar, and just relax and enjoy the breeze. You can also go swimming, kayaking, or dolphin watching.
If you are up for an adventure, you might want to try hiking Mount Kanlaon. Mount Kanlaon, an active volcano, is the highest peak in Negros Island. The hike to its summit takes around three days. During the hike, you would really feel immersed in nature, since the trek would pass through forests, grasslands, and craters, where you would see diverse species of flora and fauna including orchids, ferns, birds, and monkeys. Once you get to the top, you can relax, and be amazed by the view.
5. Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park
As the name suggests, this well-protected Natural Park features TWIN lakes, like literally! The two lakes are namely Lake Balinsasayao and Lake Danao. The lakes were formed by volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. Today, it has become a home to many species of flora and fauna. You can relax and enjoy the view, or you can do activities such as boat riding, kayaking, or biking. There is also a viewing deck where you can enjoy the view at a wider range.
6. Dumaguete's Rizal Boulevard
The coast was names after Dr. Jose Rizal, the National Hero of the Philippines, where he visited Dumaguete in 1892. This boulevard is the living definition of “chill”. Along the boulevard, there are a wide range of restaurants, cafes, hotels, and shops to choose from. You can walk or jog along its walkway while enjoying the breeze, or chill with the locals. Some of the notable activities of the locals in Rizal Boulevard during the night include Zumba exercises, taekwondo, volleyball, live acoustic performances, walking (solo, couple, in group, or with pets), or just sitting down and eating streetfoods.
The list of tourist spots in Negros Oriental is endless, and there’s more to explore and discover. Whether you want adventure, enjoying nature, or just want to chill, Negros Oriental is the perfect place to be. Long weekends are coming in 2023, don’t forget to consider Negros Oriental in your destinations. Negros Oriental is waiting for you!
To know more about Negros Oriental, go to www.visitnegrosoriental.com
New Year's Resolution ng isang Accountant
by: Catleya Derrama
As a new year begins, many individuals set resolutions to improve themselves, and for accountants, it's no different. Here's a list of New Year's resolutions for accountants. How many of these do you think you would make this 2023?
Become a Member in Good Standing (MIGS)
Attend seminars and convention.
Reduce overtime hours. Go home early if possible.
Achieve work life balance
Lessen coffee intake (to an acceptable level ;)
Break the cycle of Accountants staying single. Go find love.
Network more in the Accounting industry
Invest in professional development
Automate manual accounting tasks
Clean up books for clerical errors
Prioritize health over work.
Learn new accounting software
Reduce backlogs
Be active and volunteer in PICPA
Explore other fields of the accounting industry
Tutor and help some Accountancy students.
Lessen exposure to screen and take more care of your vision.
Explore side hustle outside the profession.
Exercise after work to compensate for the time spent sitting during work.
Give time to your hobbies despite busy schedule
Beat the Heat this Summer!
Summer is here and the temperature is rising. How can you enjoy the sunny days without feeling dehydrated, exhausted, or overheated? Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and hydrated during a hot day.
- Drink plenty of water. Water is essential for your body to function properly and regulate its temperature. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, and more if you are sweating a lot or doing physical activity. You can also drink other fluids, but avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate you more.
- Eat light and fresh foods. Avoid heavy or greasy meals that can make you feel sluggish and increase your body heat. Instead, opt for fruits, vegetables, salads, sandwiches, yogurt and other foods that are rich in water and nutrients. They will help you stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
- Wear loose and light clothing. Choose fabrics that are breathable and comfortable, such as cotton, linen or silk. Avoid dark colors that can absorb more heat and make you feel hotter. Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun's rays and prevent sunburns, heat rashes and heat strokes.
- Seek shade and cool places. If possible, avoid being outdoors during the hottest hours of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Find a shady spot under a tree, an umbrella or a canopy. You can also a wet towel to cool yourself down. Call for help if you experience symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, such as nausea, headache, confusion, or fainting.
- Have fun and stay safe. Hot days are a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, biking, hiking or traveling. Just make sure you follow these tips to stay healthy and hydrated during a hot day. Remember to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. Stay in touch with your friends and family and check on each other's well-being. With some planning and precautions, you can have a wonderful summer!
What Lies Ahead?
As a Certified Public Accountant, your career can take several paths depending on your interests, skills, and goals. Overall, as a CPA, you have a wide range of career opportunities available to you. Continuously developing your skills and expertise, networking, and staying up-to-date with industry developments can help you succeed in your chosen career path.
We sought the valuable inputs or thoughts of some NegOr PICPAns in the different sectors and here’s what they share:
Mary Diane T. Carbo
CPA, Calligrapher, State Auditor
17 years in the Government Service
“As a CPA in the government sector, there are many opportunities ahead:
The need for financial expertise and oversight within government organizations, which require skilled professionals with knowledge of accounting principles and regulations to ensure that their finances are managed properly.
An increasing demand for CPAs in public service roles such as auditing, accounting system implementation, or budgeting positions. As government becomes more complex, they will need qualified individuals who can provide accurate financial information and advice on how best to manage resources efficiently and effectively.
3. A growing focus on transparency within government agencies which requires CPAs to be able to accurately report data related to spending decisions made by elected officials or other high-level personnel within the organization. By providing this level of detail, CPAs can help ensure that taxpayer's money is being used responsibly and ethically while also helping promote trust between citizens and their representatives in office.
4. A growing emphasis on ethical standards within the profession will create opportunities for CPAs who can demonstrate high levels of integrity and professionalism when dealing with sensitive matters related to governmental finances or operations.
5. An aging workforce that needs to be replaced by younger professionals who are up-to-date on current accounting standards and regulations. With many experienced CPAs retiring or leaving their positions, there will be a growing need for new talent to fill these roles.
Patrick P. Templado
CPA, Educator
5 years in Public Practice
It is a common misconception that "if ma-CPA ka, madato na ka". Not to discourage you, but to tell you the truth, not all entry-level positions for CPAs are high-paying. Yes, it is true that there are accountants who became rich, but it did not happen right after they passed the CPA board exam. They, too, started from the bottom, and worked their way up. But for me, it is not all about how big your salary is, but it is on how you save. The income should not be the sole determinant of success. You can be successful even without getting super rich, but by being grateful on what you have and working hard for a better life. I also realized that it is not good to compare yourself with the success of others. Working as an Accountant in Public Practice will also test your character. Along the way, there might be situations that will not happen according to your expectations. Above all else, you should deal it accordingly to your values and conscience.
Sheryl L. Mi-ot
CPA, Juris Doctor
2 years in commerce and industry, 3 years in the government sector
A lot.... challenges will not stop after getting and passing the CPALE. Accountants are blessed enough to land on good paying jobs but such corresponds with greater responsibilities. We need to meet the expectations of our respective employers and by doing that we need to keep updated on the recent accounting rulings, issuances and other areas of competencies. We need to attend seminars, orientations, trainings, etc. for us to remain competent and always ready to face the adversities in the world of accounting profession.
Jason P. Lawanan
CPA, Crypto Tax Accountant
1 year in public practice, 4 years in commerce and industry sector
Graduating with a Bachelors degree in Accounting is great achievement. What lies ahead are endless opportunities for you. Use your talent to support businesses, clients, and build your career. . Most importantly, always remember to work with integrity.
Bakit ka nag-Accountancy?
Nobody said it was easy 🎶🎶..... But why would anyone choose to study BS Accountancy anyway? If you're wondering why, you're not alone. This course requires a lot of dedication, hardwork, and patience. On the bright side, BS Accountancy opens the door to a stable career, high demand in the market, and a chance to make a difference in the world of business and finance.
To give you some insights from BS Accountancy students and graduates, we posted a question in our Facebook page: "Bakit ka nag-Accountancy?". Here are some inspiring, interesting and funny responses we received:
There are many reasons why people choose to study BS Accountacy. Some are practical, some are personal, but some are also funny and surprising. Remember that Accounting is not just a profession, it's a lifestyle. And it's up to you to make the most out of it.