Ten Management Accounting students from Saint Mary’s University (SMU) actively participated in the grand launch of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) – University of Saint Louis (USL) Chapter on March 14, 2025. The event, held at the Audio-Visual Room (AVR) on the Bishop Constant Jurgens Campus, USL, served as a platform for students to expand their knowledge of management accounting and explore career opportunities in the field.

The launch featured three insightful technical sessions led by esteemed industry professionals. Sir John Elson Baguipo, CPA, CMA, CFC, ASEAN CPA, opened the discussions with his talk on “Opportunities of a CMA in the Accounting and Finance Industry.” He emphasized the benefits of obtaining a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification and how it enhances career prospects globally. Following this, Ms. Arriane Steffi Bacon, CMA, CLSSGB, delved into “The Rise of Technological Consulting in Accounting: Opportunities in the Digital Age,” highlighting the growing demand for automation, data analytics, and financial technology expertise. Lastly, Sir Ivan S. Kwok, CPA, CMA, explored the “Impact of AI on the Career of Accountants,” demonstrating how artificial intelligence is reshaping financial processes and decision-making in the industry.

Meanwhile, Trixia Cabugao, Fher Cariaga, and Karl Michael Navarette, BSMA-4 students, showcased their knowledge and skills in various accounting courses, with a strong emphasis on Management Advisory Services (MAS), during the inter-school accounting quiz bee participated by colleges and universities in Region 2. The event was held during the IMA x USL Grand Launch at the University of Saint Louis, Tuguegarao City.

𝙆𝙖𝙧𝙡 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙚𝙡 𝙉𝙖𝙫𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚 emerged as the champion, achieving the highest score among all participants, while 𝙁𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙜𝙖 secured second place. Moreover, Saint Mary’s University (SMU) participants claimed the overall championship in the competition. They were accompanied by their coach, Mrs. Dorilyn C. Tiongson, MBA, JD, faculty member of the Accountancy Department.

The IMA-USL Chapter launch was not only an opportunity for students to engage with industry leaders but also a stepping stone for their future careers. With the rapid digital transformation in accounting and finance, the event reinforced the importance of continuous learning and professional growth. As future CMAs and finance professionals, these Marian Management Accounting students demonstrated their ability to adapt, innovate, and excel in the ever-evolving world of accounting.

Written by: Karl Navarrete, BSMA 4
Photo credits: Karl Navarrete, BSMA 4