By: Engr. Edgie V. Polintan

Subic Bay Freeport Zone – From December 2-5, 2024, the COA Region III Training Unit conducted a significant seminar on Financial Audit at the Subic Riviera Hotel and Residences in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales. It was attended by 119 Audit Team Leaders and Audit Team Members from all Audit Sectors of COA Regional Office III. The seminar commenced with opening remarks by Ms. Carmen P. Siron, Chief Administrative Officer of the Administrative, Training and Finance Division who set the pace for the insightful sessions that followed.

The resource persons for the seminar were Supervising Auditor (SA) Mark C. Silloriquez, OIC – SAs Princess Lea B. Taroy and Juan Carlos V. Gonzales, OIC-RSA Ma. Baby Lena D. Agas, and OIC – Audit Team Leaders Francis S. Mayled and Diana Rose D. Santos, all of whom had previously attended the “Conduct of the Training of Trainers on Financial Audit” conducted by COA-PIDS from September 30 to October 4, 2024. Their expertise and knowledge greatly contributed to the success of the roll-out, providing valuable insights and guidance to all participants.

Throughout the four-day seminar, various workshops and role plays were conducted, enhancing the practical skills of the attendees . These interactive sessions allowed participants to apply theoretical knowledge in simulated scenarios, fostering a deeper understanding of financial audit processes that complies with the International Standards of Supreme Audit Institutions (ISSAIs) and the requirement of the Supreme Audit Institutions Performance Management Framework (SAI PMF).

The closing ceremonies on the last day featured reflections from auditors Buddy B. Florendo, Donna C. Panoy, and Mark Christian C. De Jesus, who shared their experiences and learnings from the seminar. Their reflections highlighted the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the field of financial auditing.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Regional Director, Atty. Omar S. Roque, who commended the participants for their dedication and engagement. He emphasized the critical role of financial audits in ensuring transparency and accountability within organizations.

The seminar aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of the audit teams, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle financial audits with the highest standards of accuracy and integrity. The COA Training Unit’s efforts in organizing this seminar were highly appreciated, as it provided a valuable platform for professional development and knowledge sharing among the audit teams.