Chicka-Chicka!
Q4 Issue Series of FY 2023-2024
Tell me you’re a CPA without telling me you’re a CPA
By: Ria Jane Favor, CPA
Oh, the life of a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – it's not just about crunching numbers, it's a thrilling adventure through the jungles of tax codes and the challenging ground of audit reports. So, how do you spot a CPA in the wild without them uttering a word? Let's dive into the telltale signs.
A CPA won't just tell you they're a CPA. You’ll inadvertently reveal it when you get more excited about a balanced budget than a balanced diet. Your eyes light up at the sight of a well-organized Excel spreadsheet. Where others see a monotonous grid, you see a canvas for their financial artistry.
You use the phrase "According to GAAP" in everyday conversations, and somehow it always seems relevant. You speak in a mysterious language where 'credits' aren't part of a movie's end, 'liquidity' isn't about hydration, and 'depreciation' isn't a personal insult. You casually drop terms like EBITDA, LIFO and FIFO during a conversation, leaving others bewildered. Your friends might think you're speaking in tongues, but fellow CPAs nod in understanding. It’s like a secret handshake, but with acronyms and they might wonder if you’re discussing classified information.
A CPA's calendar is a thing of beauty, with every day meticulously planned. April is blocked out entirely, and the phrase "tax season" can induce both a sense of purpose and the sudden need for a vacation. And yes, you even have a tax-season playlist to keep you motivated during those long, caffeine-fueled nights.
You get genuinely excited about finding discrepancies. It's like solving a mystery like Sherlock Holmes. It's not paranoia but just your innate ability to spot discrepancies and ensure everything balances down to the penny. You have a superhuman ability to remain calm under pressure. When the numbers don't add up, you don't panic. You simply roll up your sleeves and dive back into the financial fray. Your favorite superhero isn't Spider-Man or Wonder Woman, it's Excel-Man, the hero who can sort data faster than a speeding bullet.
You consider the day you passed the CPA exam as a more significant life event than your own wedding. You have a favorite calculator, and it's not just a tool, it's a trusty sidekick that's seen more action than most superhero gadgets. Coffee is not just a beverage, it's a survival tool. The caffeine intake of a CPA could probably power a small village.
And lastly, you know you’re a CPA because you find this list not only humorous but also painfully accurate.
So there you have it, a lighthearted look at the quirks that make CPAs a unique breed. Whether you're a CPA yourself, or know someone who is, being a CPA is more than a job, it's a lifestyle. It's about loving the details, finding joy in the numbers, and always aiming for accuracy, ensuring everything adds up. And if you're chuckling right now, chances are, you might just be a CPA too. They didn't even need to hear you say it.
State Auditors Enriquito (Eric) and Iannie Opinion-Bulos: They “Don’t Just Rule but Double Rule” in the Field of Audit and Community Service
By: Rosario B. Villaluz, CPA
State Auditors Eric and Iannie Opinion-Bulos, two distinguished Certified Public Accountants, have built a legacy of dedication, service, and excellence both in their professional lives and personal endeavors. Their story is a testament to their commitment to public service, professional growth, and community involvement, all while maintaining a strong partnership that has enabled them to support each other through the complexities of their shared profession in accounting and auditing.
Eric Bulos: As a former PICPA Negros Oriental President and State Auditor
Mr. Eric Bulos served as the President of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Negros Oriental Chapter for Fiscal Year 2004-2005. During his term, he demonstrated great leadership capabilities that have greatly contributed to this esteemed organization standing the test of time up to the present day.
On the other hand, his expertise and dedication to the Commission on Audit (COA) led him to achieve his current position as State Auditor V, as the Supervising Auditor for the Corporate Government Sector Clusters 1, 2, and 4 in COA Region VII and was also privileged to be part of the COA United Nations Pool of External Auditors. Eric’s assignments with the audit of UN agencies is one of the highlights of his career. His audit assignments include the Department of Political Affairs (DPA) and the Department of General Assembly Affairs and Conference Services (DGAACS) in New York, USA (2002); United Nations Operation in Burundi (ONUB) in Bujumbura, Burundi (2007); United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in Geneva, Switzerland (2008) and the Foreign-Based Government Agencies in Doha, Qatar in 2018.
Iannie Opinion-Bulos: As an accomplished CPA and State Auditor
State Auditor Iannie Opinion-Bulos has an equally accomplished career in COA. Having served the Commission for 38 years, she opted for early retirement in January 2024, where she served as a State Auditor IV, holding position as the OIC-Supervising Auditor of the State Universities and Colleges (SUCCs) in Region VII and the Concurrent Audit Team Leader for Negros Oriental State University and Siquijor State College.
Like Eric, she is also a member of the COA United Nations Pool of External Auditors, having undertaken various assignments in the following UN Agencies: United Nations University (UNU) and United Nations University for Advanced Studies (UNU-IAS) in Tokyo, Japan; United Nations University World Institute for Development Research (UNU- WIDER) in Helsinki, Finland; and Office of the Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) in United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA.
A true blue Sillimanian, and having excelled in her basic education, graduating as the valedictorian of Silliman University High School Class of 1979, Iannie embodies the motto "Via, Veritas, Vita" (The Way, The Truth, The Life).
More than just the professional camaraderie, a love blossomed into a lasting partnership
While both were serving at the COA Corporate Audit Office at the COA Central Office in Quezon City, Eric and Iannie found more than just professional camaraderie. Their shared dedication to public service and their mutual respect for each other's work blossomed into a deep and lasting partnership. They tied the knot in 1990, marking the beginning of a journey together that would see them balancing their demanding careers with
building a life filled with love and mutual support. Eventually, they settled in Dumaguete, where Iannie is a longtime resident. Reflecting on their move, Iannie often remarks with a smile that "nadagit jud si Eric to Dumaguete," playing on the city's well-known tagline, which means "captivated" or "enthralled." The charm of Dumaguete, combined with the warmth of its community and the beauty of its surroundings, proved irresistible. This move not only brought Eric closer to Iannie's roots but also allowed them to build a life together in a place that perfectly balanced their professional commitments with a rich, fulfilling personal life.
On pursuing individual passion and interests
Iannie's interests include writing, particularly short stories and fiction, a passion rooted in her previous role as the Literary Editor of The Junior Sillimanian. Throughout her COA years, she focused on technical writing, but now, in retirement, she hopes to rekindle her creative writing pursuits, returning to the literary expressions she has long missed.
Moreover, had Iannie not become a CPA, she would have pursued a career as a psychiatrist. However, as an only child, her parents were hesitant to let her study outside the province, leading her to take up Accounting at Silliman University. She’s still grateful, though, since this decision paved the way for her successful career and her significant contributions to the field of public auditing.
Eric, on the other hand, is a steadfast advocate of physical fitness. His skills in tennis have earned him accolades both within the office and in external competitions. His dedication to the sport not only underscores his commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle but also highlights his competitive spirit and passion for excellence.
Eric’s guiding principles in life includes the teachings of Matthew 7:12, which emphasizes treating others as one would like to be treated, and Philippians 4:13, which speaks of finding strength through faith. Although he initially aspired to become a soldier when he was young, he was influenced by friends and family, though, to pursue accounting, a decision that led to a fulfilling and successful career, and “eventually led to meeting Iannie”, he quipped.
On Community Service and Involvements
Beyond his professional achievements, Eric is dedicated to community service, actively participating in civic organizations such as the Rotary Club of Dumaguete East and the Sidlakang Negros Eagles Club. He has also served as Chapter Commander of Knights of Rizal, Regional Assemblyman of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and A Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow. He also supports his church as the Past Financial Secretary at Silliman University Church and has served as a member of its Board of Elders, demonstrating his commitment to giving back.
Iannie, on the other hand, is a member the Rotary Ann of Dumaguete East and became involved in initiatives helping persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Dumaguete City through the Little Angels Foundation and currently a member of the Silliman University Church Board of Elders. She is also exploring motivational speaking, having recently served as a Balik Talent Speaker during Silliman University's Founding Anniversary in 2023 and during the University Christian Life Emphasis Celebration.
The couple are also serving as members of The Morning Light Choir of the Silliman University Church.
The Strength of a Shared Profession
Eric and Iannie have found strength in their shared profession, allowing them to understand and support each other through the complexities of their work. They agree that one of the advantages of being a couple in the same profession is the mutual understanding and support they can offer each other. They are well-acquainted with the demands and intricacies of accounting and auditing, which helps them navigate their professional challenges together.
However, they also recognize the potential disadvantage of their world revolving around the same profession. To maintain balance in their lives, they engage in activities outside of work. They attend social functions, participate in voluntary works and services. This approach helps them broaden their perspectives and learn from people from all walks of life, ensuring that their lives are enriched beyond the confines of their professional responsibilities.
On Parenting and Grandparenting
Eric and Iannie have two accomplished children who have pursued different career paths. Iresse Patricia works online as a Marketing Manager for a Canada-based company, while Irvin Kyle is an Assistant Chef at The Shangri-La in Muscat, Oman. Despite not following in their parents' footsteps, they excel in their respective fields. The couple also enjoys grandparenting Kyle’s son, Covin, embracing this new chapter of their lives with joy and affection.
A Legacy of Service and Dedication
The story of Eric and Iannie Opinion-Bulos is one of dedication, service, and excellence. Their journey is an inspiring example of how dedication to one’s profession, combined with a commitment to service and faith, can lead to a life of meaningful accomplishments and enduring impact in their field and in their community. Anchored on one of the fundamentals of accounting wherein “Debit” should equal to “Credit”, they have also balanced their demanding careers with their personal lives, maintaining a strong partnership that has enabled them to support each other and thrive together.
Their story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring accountants and auditors, demonstrating the profound difference that two passionate and dedicated Certified Public Accountants can make in the world for they not just “rule but they double rule”.
The Other Side of PICPAns Featuring: President Rovelen G. Visor, CPA
Embodying Dedicated Service and Multifaceted Excellence
By: Rosario B. Villaluz, CPA
As Ms. Rovelen Gumagay-Visor steps down from her esteemed role as the President of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Negros Oriental Chapter for Fiscal Year 2023-2024, it is a moment to celebrate her unwavering dedication, exemplary service, and the multifaceted roles she has embodied with grace and commitment.
Her journey with PICPA is a testament to her favorite John F. Kennedy’s iconic quote, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” Throughout her years of service with PICPA, she has embraced a variation of Kennedy's profound message: “Ask not what PICPA can do for you, ask what you can do for PICPA.” This tenet, she believes, is universally applicable to any organization or company we are part of.
Celebrating a Legacy of Service
Rovelen’s journey with PICPA began in FY2009-2010 as Chapter Secretary, a role she held with distinction for multiple terms (FY2012-2013, FY2013-2014, FY2015-2016). Her expertise and passion for education saw her take on the role of Director for Education during FY2010-2011, FY2016-2017, FY2018-2019, and FY2021-2022. She further served as VP for Professional Development in FY2019-2020 and as President Elect in FY2022-2023. Her leadership culminated in her presidency during FY2023-2024.
Over the past 15 years, Rovelen’s voluntary service has been marked by countless sacrifices and challenges, yet she has found every moment rewarding. Her dedication has been instrumental in the chapter's success, navigating through a roller-coaster year to achieve significant milestones.
Acknowledgements and Accomplishments
Rovelen’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. On July 10, 2024, Rovelen received the Outstanding Chapter President Award from the PICPA Eastern Visayas Region Council during its Induction and Turnover Ceremony in Cebu City. Likewise, she has received citations for her reliable support and significant contributions towards the accomplishment and realization of PICPA’s vision, mission, and thrusts. Her work with the PICPA e-Journal during her term has also been recognized, showcasing her commitment to knowledge sharing and professional development.
Balancing Multifaceted Roles
Beyond her professional achievements, Rovelen is an outstanding example of balancing multiple roles with excellence. As a public servant, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment to her duties. As an educator, she has inspired countless individuals through her dedication to learning and development. As a mother, she has shown remarkable strength and compassion. Her involvement in community service further underscores her holistic approach to making a positive impact.
The Artistic Side of Rovelen Visor
As a child, she dreamed of becoming a teacher. During high school, her aspirations shifted towards becoming an architect. If she was not a CPA, she might have pursued a career as either an architect or a secondary school teacher. Unbeknownst to many, Rovelen is also an artist in her own right. She enjoys sketching, drawing, and painting as hobbies, alongside writing poetry and songs. Her artistic pursuits reveal a creative and expressive dimension to her personality, adding another layer to her multifaceted contributions.
Gratitude and Forward-Looking Vision
Rovelen extends her heartfelt gratitude to all those who have been part of this incredible journey. Her tenure may be ending, but her legacy of service, dedication, and excellence will continue to inspire future leaders of PICPA Negros Oriental. As she reflects on the past 15 years, she celebrates the collective achievements and looks forward to new opportunities to contribute to the community she so dearly loves.
Congratulations to PICPA Negros Oriental for reaching this day, and a special thank you to President Rovelen Visor for her unwavering dedication and exemplary service. Her journey has been a beacon of inspiration, and her legacy will continue to light the way for others.