Tacloban City – The Machica Group successfully commemorated  its 10^th Founding Anniversary and Christmas Party with the theme “Inspiring @ 10,” at Asia Convention Center, Real Street, Tacloban City on December 18. The celebration started with a Holy Mass where Founders, Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Machica who were also celebrating their tenth year wedding anniversary were blessed by Rev. Father Louie Endriano. A colorful PowerPoint presentation of Machica Group’s inspiring history prepared and presented by Mr. Donald Velasco featured the ten years of the Group’s organic growth and significant milestones. A friendly competition among three groups of employees who showcased their talent in singing, dancing and acting was another must-see part of the event. The second and third group tied for the first place so they shared prize equally. Because of the better performance they showed than that of the prior year, Mr. Machica gave an additional amount to each group. In between the group competition, the occasion was made more colorful with the presentations from invited performers. Ten children from SOS Children’s Village of Tacloban who were the chosen charity beneficiary of the gift packs and cash from Machica Group performed a sing and dance  number. In red shirts and Santa Claus hats, the children got the audience sing and dance along with them. The Bossa Nova Band added a romantic touch to the celebration as they played a special song for the Group’s VP, Joan Machica as her husband, mother in law and children went to offer her flowers. Another highlight of the event was the launching of the Group’s Website: www.machicagroup.com. Now Machica Group is just a click away. This is to make the service more convenient for the clients and other stakeholders. Machica Group.com will also allow the group to be linked worldwide. Mr. Machica has a big heart for kids and sees education as the best way to eliminate poverty, which is why the Group formally announced the “Machica Inspires Kids Education” (MIKE) a charitable project which Mr. and Mrs. Machica opened with initial seed money of ten thousand pesos. MIKE officially becomes the corporate social responsibility arm of the Machica Group which aims to support the selected kids in their primary education. There was also an awarding ceremony for both business partners and employees. The winners as follows:

Aside from awarding the pioneering clients and best employees, the Group also granted a one hundred thousand worth of Accident Insurance to the first guest to arrive at the venue. The said event was meticulously planned and organized under the supervision of no less than the Founder himself, Mr. Michael A. Machica, and it was all worth the effort. He shares the success of the event to each staff for the great effort in making it happen. “…let me take this opportunity to thank the Lord above and all the people who made this event possible. Especially my staff who really prepared for their group presentations seriously…” he said in his closing remarks. After the program at the Asia Convention Center, Mr. Machica invited all personnel for a dinner at his residence.

The past decade has been very inspiring for the Machica Group. As the Group reaches its tenth anniversary, the Group takes this as a great opportunity to thank all the people – employees, business partners, customers, all other stakeholders, who in one way or another, have contributed to the continued success of the Group. With the theme “Inspiring @ 10,” the commemoration will be held together with the Christmas party and the 10th wedding anniversary of the founders on December 18, 2009 at the Asia Convention Center, Tacloban City.

Ten years ago a young Corporate Banking Manager in a leading universal bank, Mr. Michael Machica and his fiancée (now wife), Joan Tan-Cruz laid the cornerstone of what later would be known as Machica Group. The magical story of the business’ birth was made more meaningful when Michael and Joan exchanged marital vows in a solemn church wedding on December 18, 1999.

Being a Certified Public Accountant and a Life Insurance Underwriter, Mr. Machica encouraged his fiancée to take the Non-Life Insurance Underwriter’s examination. After successfully passing the test in July 2009, the two organized “Machica Accounting and Insurance Services.”

As an insurance intermediary, Machica Accounting and Insurance Services sealed contracts with the biggest industry players namely; FGU Insurance Corporation (now BPI/MS Insurance Corporation), Pioneer Insurance and Surety Corporation, Malayan Insurance Co., Inc., Philippine Charter Insurance Corporation, Ayala Life Assurance Co., and Ayala Plans, Inc. With FGU Insurance as its first principal, production generation started in September 1999.

The founders’ sheer dedication, hard work, adeptness, entrepreneurial spirit, deep concern to mold aspiring professionals, and genuine desire to make significant contribution to humanity, the enterprise easily metamorphose to growth stage.

To best position the major service lines and to allow optimal growth to operating units, Machica FIRM (Financial, Insurance & Risk Managers), Inc. was created in December 2002 to professionally provide insurance, investment, risk management, financial advisory, and consulting services. On the other hand, the accounting, audit, and tax services were the major services of M. A. Machica Accounting Firm [now Machica Tan-Cruz & Co].

With highly proactive management, business process outsourcing and mutual funds distribution were added to the corporate charter of Machica FIRM, Inc. in 2006.  In the same year, audit and assurance services of Metro Manila Extension Office kicked off with an astonishing market response. From scratch, significant corporate clients availed themselves of the first audit and tax season.

Truly, the Group has encountered noteworthy organic evolution in a decade of excellent, highly professionalized service and solution flat-forms. But after looking into those changes here’s how the organization and its people have been “Inspiring @ 10” for 10 reasons:

1.   Setting the Corporate Culture

Who are we as corporate citizen? What do we stand for? What culture do we espouse before our stakeholders, the community?

We are a professional group with a mission of providing the best service and solution to our customers. We deal, work, and act with excellence, integrity, quality and teamwork. This is our being, our soul…

We started 2009 with a Values and Team Building Seminar facilitated by a renowned Human Resource Development (HRD), OD Consultant, and Educator, Mr. Santos E. Getalado in January 30-31, 2009. The Group’s corporate values namely:  service and solution, excellence, quality, integrity, and teamwork were officially launched.

Service & Solution
We are to serve clients effectively and efficiently by providing professional, tailored-fit solutions, quality service at competitive prices. We are to deliver services with ingenuity and initiative, boldness in innovation, and openness to new ideas and methods.

Integrity
We conduct our business in the highest ethical and professional manner. We deliver professional services in accordance with the Firm policies and relevant technical, professional standards. In competing enthusiastically, we confine our practices to what is legal and ethical.

Excellence
We are inspired to excel at all times. We achieve excellence by delivering what we promise and by adding value beyond what is expected. In our pursuit for excellence, we endeavor for better ways, continuously develop our competencies, and innovate.

Quality
We consistently promote quality service, quality output, and quality people. We recognize that clients expect value for money and demand quality services. Quality services attract and retain quality clients and quality people. Improved quality services would mean better control of business risks. Quality differentiates us in the market place.

Teamwork
We believe in effective team effort and synergy. Espousing teamwork spirit with peers, colleagues, and clients allow us to reach best solutions.

2.   International and National Executive Development

One of Machica Group’s top priorities is investing on professional advancement that is why key officers are sent to international and national executive programs aimed at honing their leadership and managerial capabilities.

Michael A. Machica – Chairperson / CEO / Managing Partner
Strategic Business Management, Kuala Lumpur, SIDA scholar

Mr. Michael A. Machica went to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in March 30 to April 4, 2009 for the final leg of the SIDA-sponsored advanced international training program in Strategic Business Management. In this seminar, the early wins of the strategic business plan were reported and discussed with the distinguished faculty acting as “gurus.”

The training started in Stockholm, Sweden, in September 29 until October 17, 2008. Mr. Machica was the lone Filipino Scholar of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and was among the 25 delegates from Asia and Europe.

Joan C. Machica – Vice President – Finance & HR
Human Resource Management Courses, Ateneo de Manila University

Ms. Joan Tan-Cruz Machica completed her studies at the Makati-based Ateneo de Manila University, Center for Continuing Education in partnership with Ateneo Center for Organization Research & Development (CORD) namely; Basic HR for Line Managers which run for three days from April 16, 17 & 18, 2009; 9:00am to 5:00 pm and Essentials of Supervision which run on May 14-15 & 21-22, 2009.

Maria Zyrah V. Alcober – Partner
Master in Business Administration, ADFC

Ms. Maria Zyrah V. Alcober finished her Master in Business Administration at Asian Development Foundation College, Tacloban City in March, 2009 as a company scholar.

Ma. Grace A. Machica – Partner
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) Review Program

Ms. Grace A. Machica completed the review series in Makati for Certified Internal Auditor’s international certification administered by The Institute of Internal Auditors – Philippines as a company scholar. Ms. Machica is scheduled to complete the computer-based CIA test before the year ends.

Donald O. Velasco – Asst. Manager & Business Dev. Officer
Certified Business Administrator’s (CBA) Program

As a company scholar, Mr. Donald O. Velasco completed the Certified Business Administrators (CBA) final assessment run by DM Competitive Advantage, Inc. at the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) campus, Makati City, held from June 20 to August 22, 2009.  He later received notice about his eligibility to apply for full membership from the Association of Chartered Business Administrators (CABA) in Canada.

3. Continued Professional Development

Motivated to be the best service provider in its chosen markets, Machica Group provides avenue for optimal professional growth among its personnel. It continues to hone staff competitiveness through internal and external trainings.

We believe in the primacy of human resource in gaining strategic competitive advantage.  Our organizational performance is inextricably linked with the competence and character of our personnel.

On September 5 to October 10, the Machica staff underwent an English Training course under Dr. Corazon C. Maye, Ph.D. at the English Training Center, People’s Center & Library, Real Street, Tacloban City. The English Training is a yearly activity.

It was then followed by a Leadership Training; “Championing the Leader Within You.” Mr. Santos E. Getalado conducted the training at Machica Group’s training center especially designed for its officers and staff on October 16, 17, and 19, 2009.

4.  International Qualifications

In line with providing the best solutions to clients, the management team of the Group holds international qualifications.

In addition, this year, Mr. Machica was admitted as an Associate Member of the Association of Fraud Examiners (www.ACFE.com) based in Texas, U.S.A.

5.  Complete Service & Solution Offering

We provide a dynamic mix of professional services and solutions through the following companies:

Please refer to the menu on our service offerings.

6.  Global Reach & Servicing Capabilities

ONE WORLD, ONE ECONOMY… We are indeed on a borderless, knowledge-based economy. At an increasing rate, everyday national economies integrate with the international economy through trade, foreign direct investment, capital flows, and the spread of technology. Hence, the Group has a global reach well in place.

This year, Machica Group becomes an independent member of The Leading Edge Alliance (a global alliance of independently-owned accounting and consulting firms). With a mission to improve the performance of truly exceptional CPA firms, the Leading Edge Alliance was founded in 1999 in the U.S., LEA is ranked as the 3rd largest international firm association for 2009 as published by the International Accounting Bulletin with over 10,000 professional staff, around 1,400 partners and over 14,000 total staff, and with revenues exceeding 2.1 billion (US Dollars).

The Machica Group is the sole member of LEA in the Philippines.

Being a member of LEA, the Group has these benefits:

a. Peer-to-peer Advisory Services
-   Clients Issues
-   Firm Management
b. Best Practices
-   Services to Clients
-   Management Practices
-   Financial/operations Metrics
-   Technology
c. Professional Development
-   Leadership Development
-   Specialized Training
-   Staff Training
d. Award winning “Edge Magazine” – Electronic & Hardcopy
e. Ability to Service Clients Worldwide
f.  Marketing Support
g. Educational Conferences
h. Member-exclusive Website
i.  Research Tools
j.  Recruiting
k. Over 300 Special Interest Groups
l. Practice Management Surveys

The Group’s international affiliation provides the Group an absolute advantage as we are able to access the resources of a multibillion dollar global professional services organization, providing business development, professional training and education, and peer-to-peer networking opportunities nationally and globally – around the corner and around the world.

In addition, the affiliation allows the Group to serve foreign clients operating in the Philippines and in the neighboring countries whose parent companies are clients of LEA member firms.

Within the fold of LEA, the following partners are members of Special Interest Groups as follows:

7.  Best Practices

Astute organizations are in constant look out for best business practices. It allows them to race with and win competition. Such formula proved useful in Machica Group’s strategic directions. Our team is spread to benchmark leading best practices through international and national conferences and seminars provided by leading authorities such as PICPA Global and National, The Institute of Internal Auditors, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, Association of CPAs in Public Practice, BSP Institute, academic institutions, among others.

The CEO / Managing Partner, Michael A. Machica attended the 3rd Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Global Convention held at Hilton Los Angeles North Glendale & Executive Meeting Center, Glendale, California, on September 14 to 20, 2009 where he met the President of the Board of Accountancy (BOA) of California, Mr. Robert A. Petersen, and other dignitaries in the global accounting arena.

Likewise, Mr. Machica attended the recently concluded 64th PICPA National Convention in Manila.

8.  Awards and Recognitions

The Group takes pride for its unrelenting progress since 1999. The growth is cemented with external recognitions from peers, business community, local government, and the academe.

Michael A. Machica

In December 4, 2009, Mr. Machica received a letter from International Academy of Management and Economics (IAME) Associate Director and Alumni Awards Committee chairman, Dr. Robert F. Galindez, congratulating him for having been chosen by the committee for the “ACHIEVERS OF IAME” award in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments which according to Dr. Galindez, “demonstrated the canon of excellence by which the academy stands for.” He accepted his award at Westown Hotel, Iloilo City, during the General Alumni Homecoming Celebration on December 6.

Mr. Machica completed his M.B.A. at the IAME in 2005, class valedictorian, outstanding graduate in academics (magna cum laude – equivalent), and leadership awardee. IAME is a globally recognized international business school based in Makati City.

Citation:  “For his exemplary and meritorious service and active participation in the affairs of the Institute, serving PICPA in the past 15 years, giving life to the ideas and tenets for which the Institute stands;  for his invaluable contribution, particularly to Tacloban City Chapter as the Public Relations Officer, by providing the central knowledge of the latest updates shaping the accountancy profession, and by facilitating the much needed linkages to the Association of CPAs in Public Practice, The Institute of Internal Auditors, the public stakeholders;   at such as young age, his passion to uplift the quality of public practice in Eastern Visayas makes him an achiever, thus, contributing to the prestige of the accountancy profession”.

Joseph Tan Cruz

M. A. Machica Accounting Firm (now Machica Tan-Cruz & Co.)

On the public practice of accountancy, audit, and tax, the Machica Tan-Cruz & Co. and / or its partners are duly recognized and accredited by the following regulatory authorities:

Board of Accountancy
Securities and Exchange Commission
Bureau of Internal Revenue
National Electrification Administration
Insurance Commission
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

Machica FIRM, Inc.

(Financial & Insurance Division)

•           Gold Award, PhilCharter Glitters at 45 Sales Drive, Philippine Charter   Insurance Corporation,  March 30, 2006;
•           Chairman’s Award, PhilCharter 2004 Thrills, Philippine Charter Insurance Corporation, September 24, 2004;
•           Top Producer Award, first semester 2004, PhilCharter 2004 Thrills, Philippine Charter Insurance Corporation, September 24, 2004;
•           Top Producer Award, 1st Runner-Up, Visayas Region, Boracay Summer Gate-away Promo, Philippine Charter Insurance Corp., May 17, 2003;
•           Three times qualifier, BPI/MS Insurance Corp., National Convention (2000-2002)
•           Qualifier, Hongkong Gate-away Challenge, Ayala Plans, Inc., 2001
•           Qualifier (Area Manager & Sales Counselor Categories),  National Awards, Ayala Plans, Inc., 2002

9.   Civic Involvements and Corporate Social Responsibility

The Machica Group is a strong advocate of triple bottom-line – planet, people, and profit. As a corporate citizen, the three “Ps” are integral to the Group’s mission, strategic initiatives, and day-to-day operations.

In July, 2009, Mr. Machica assumed his presidency of the Philippine Institute Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Tacloban Chapter formalized in an Induction Ceremony held at the Ritz Tower de Leyte, Real Street, Tacloban City. He also assumed Directorship at the Federation of Active Professional Organization in Region 8 (PAFORE). Further, he is one of the Vice Presidents of the International Academy of Management and Economics – Alumni Association in the Visayas. Other Machica Group employees who are officers of PICPA include:  Maria Zyrah V. Alcober, Asst. Treasurer, and Francis Fritz L. Natividad, Secretary.

In May, the Group put smiling faces to elementary pupils of Barangay 7, Quinapondan, E. Samar by providing them school bags, slippers and school supplies.

Part of the Group’s annual Christmas activities is the gift-giving to chosen charity particularly those who take care of abandoned children.  This Yuletide season, the Group has chosen “SOS Children’s Village of Tacloban” as the beneficiary.

10.  We are on the Web:  www.machicagroup.com

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE, GLOBALLY-LINKED… Business through mouth or through mouse? We say, both…

In the highly competitive and fast changing world of business, the Machica Group engages in constant innovation, the latest being a highly interactive, user-friendly, powerful www.machicagroup.com website. Everyone is invited to be linked!

MachicaGroup.com is our vital key in a knowledge-based, globalized economy.

In closing, with the help and divine guidance of our Almighty, our 10 years of operation has by far exceeded our expectations. We can only express our sincerest gratitude to all our patrons, partners, and the communities we serve even as we aspire forward for many great anniversaries to come!

Management & Staff

Glendale C.A. – Michael A. Machica, the Managing Partner of Machica Tan-Cruz & Co., and President of PICPA Tacloban Chapter attended the recently concluded 3rd Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountant (PICPA) International Global Convention held at Hilton Los Angeles North Glendale at the Executive Meeting Center, Glendale, California,  on September 14 to 20, 2009. He joined the other key officers of PICPA International (USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe) and PICPA National in gracing the convention with the theme “The Global CPA’s Role on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).”

The conference gave Mr. Machica the opportunity of meeting Mr. Robert A. Petersen, the President of the Board of Accountancy (BOA) of California during a get-together of the top-ranking officials of PICPA. Mr. Petersen talked about CPA’s involvement in worldwide economy and on the challenges involving reciprocity issues of Filipino CPAs and California CPAs. To cap the list of his contributions to the accountancy profession, Mr. Petersen was very keen in promoting the healthy relationship among California CPAs with other foreign CPAs to include the Filipino CPAs.

Mr. Petersen was appointed to the Board of Accountancy for the State of California by Governor Arnold Swarzenegger in March 2006. Mr. Machica on the other hand, assumed his PICPA Tacloban Chapter Presidency in July 2009.

Before the formal forum started, delegates spent some time enjoying the beautiful sights of Los Angeles while waiting for other delegates to arrive. The 3rd Global Convention started with Sports Festival from September 14 to 17.

Nine of the topnotch individuals in the world of Accountancy discussed different up-to-date and relevant topics such as Updates on Accountancy Practice of Philippine Government on International Commitments with WTO/ GATS, Important Things Every CPA Should Know in this Increasing Global Business Environment & International Taxation, IRS Alternative Dispute Resolution Programs, Current Updates on IFRS Convergence and / or Adoption for a Global CPA, Employment Opportunities for Accountants in the US and other Foreign Countries, Objectives and Functions of the AICPA Minority Committee, Financial Restatements & Response of Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC), Info Security Challenges & Management Controls to Meet the Challenges, and last but not the least, How to Boost Your Tax Practice.

During the Closing Plenary in September 19, three Chapters competed in the Adoption of Propositions Bids for the 4th Global Conference, namely: the Las Vegas Chapter, Qatar Chapter, and Toronto, Canada Chapter. The Toronto Chapter won the bidding to host the next Global Conference scheduled on September 19-25, 2011. The PICPA Global Conference is held after every two years.

Tacloban City, Phil. – A three-day Leadership: “Championing the Leader Within You” training was conducted at Machica Group’s training room especially designed for its officers and staff on October 16, 17, and 19.

Globally, it is evident that poor leadership is the reason for the crumbling of many organizations. Poor leadership is a product of ignorance of what true leadership means. To quote a famous saying, “Leadership is direction in life. It is one’s mission. It is your map and compass.” This is precisely what the management wants to impart to its team leaders and members.

Another objective of sponsoring the said workshop was for the personnel to gain knowledge of the values, principles, and strategies of Principle-centered and Value-based Leadership. Transformational change and implementation techniques were also part of the main agenda of conducting the said training.

The three-day life-changing and transformational course has taught the group new ways of looking at work-and-career-related problems and challenges. It enables them to discover new resolutions and options in resolving problems other than the typical and conventional means.

The participants include all department heads, assistant managers, supervisors, and staff of the Machica Group and three guest participants from other company invited by management. Mr. Santos E. Getalado, a renowned Human Resource Development (HRD), OD Consultant, and Educator was the consultant-facilitator. It was his second time to handle the group. The first one was on January 30-31, 2009 when he facilitated the Values and Team Building Seminar. Everyone was at ease in sharing ideas and suggestions with him.

Aside from a healthy exchange of relevant ideas; every meeting filled the training room with laughter. Each day, Mr. Getalado would give the participants, divided into smaller groups, a situational exercise on how they would act as leaders. It was done for them to apply what they have learned from the day’s discussion. After all the groups have presented, Mr. Getalado would relate the groups’ presentations to that of the day’s topic.

The participants learned the different approaches of leadership like; Managing Leader, Good Leader, Strong Leader, Visionary Leader, Empowering Leader, Bridging Leader, and Servant-Leader.

With the continuous training opportunities being provided by the management, all the employees are grateful for having a good leader who never failed to provide avenues for professional growth. In fact, Mr. Getalado always point out the Group’s trainings to be very rare especially in the private sector.

The three–day activity on Leadership was concluded by no less than the Founder and CEO of Machica Group, Michael A. Machica. He personally congratulated each participant for another professional milestone. He reiterated his firm’s commitment of providing opportunities to enhance both technical and soft skills of personnel.

In a fast changing world, business leaders are at the forefront of strategies and transformations. That is why the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), a government agency responsible for the major part of Sweden’s development cooperation, conducts programmes which aim to enhance managerial and leadership skills and cover subjects of strategic importance to economic and social development.

I happened to be one of the 25 selected participants (and the only Filipino) coming from Asian and European countries for the SIDA-sponsored Advanced International Training Programme in Strategic Business Management. The programme is designed for top managers and / or directors of middle-sized companies. It is about promoting sustainable growth and development of the participants’ managed or owned company, the business community, society, and individuals by developing effective innovation systems. The overall objective of the training programme is to contribute to the renewal and the development through management change in the participant’s home countries. The countries represented included, Albania, Armenia, Bangladesh, China, Georgia, India, Kosovo, Philippines, Serbia, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Ukraine, Vietnam and West Bank & Gaza.

While in Stockholm, we worked on the Strategic Business Plan throughout the three weeks together with other participants and supported by the ÅF Consult (a premier listed consulting company in Europe) and the topnotch faculty with significant international experiences. We also prepared and made presentations during our three-week stay.

Before the start of the programme, a virtual web-based classroom was opened for all participants that allowed us to communicate with the other participants, the Programme Management, faculty, and resource personnel. Varied information was also made available to help us prepare for the training. The Virtual Classroom was our main tool for information, document sharing, and communication before, during, and after the programme.

During the first week, the theme was Strategic framework. This was geared to intensify the perceptive of the corporate growth pattern, to identify the significant factors behind success and failure, to analyze competitiveness of products, services, and production flows, to establish the position in complex value chains, to assess market dynamics, and to identify the key resources of the company.

On the second week, the theme was strategic planning which dealt with formulating the vision, mission, and objectives, identifying key markets, products, and services, determining the required resources, and assessing the leadership and governance for sustainable growth of the company. Managerial, leadership and business tools were included in the strategic framework. Guest lecturers on Corporate Social Responsibility, Commerce and Industry of Stockholm, and Community-based minority micro finance provided a concrete three bottom-line (planet, profit, and people) business framework.

On the third week, the theme was implementation and change management. Making the strategic business plan become reality was discussed. The other drivers for and resistance to change, the first concrete steps towards new markets, customers, products and services, strategic alliances, financing and ownership issues, and of course the risk involved were tackled. A follow-up seminar was later conducted at Concorde Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, in 30 March – 3 April, 2009, for the presentation of “early wins” based on the Business Plan. Aside from the original participants, the senior officers of our respective organization who are the key players in the business plan implementation also participated in the follow-up seminar.

Upon our arrival, we checked in at Rica Hotel Stockholm, a modern and centrally located hotel which is just a walking distance to ÅF, Fleminngatan 7 where the seminars and trainings were held. The ÅF Group is a leading name in technical consulting, with expertise founded on more than a century of experience. They offer highly qualified services and solutions for industrial processes, infrastructure projects and the development of products and IT systems. They are also one of the leading names in certified third-party testing and inspection work and, in providing international trainings. Its parent company, ÅF AB, is listed on the Stockholm stock market.

A local transportation card was given to us, along with other relevant information and tourist brochures. The transportation card was our key to explore the historic city of Stockholm via train and public bus. Stockholm has a very efficient transport system.

We had a very limited free time during the programme because the seminars would start at 8:30 in the morning and end at 5:30 in the afternoon. But even so, I still had a chance to take a glimpse of the splendid sights of Scandinavia, particularly the fourth-largest country in Europe, Sweden. Scandinavia is a region in northern Europe that includes Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Through a tête-à-tête with some locals I met, I learned that its name was taken after the province of Scania in southern Sweden.

We went via train to the Gothenburg located on the West Coast of Sweden for a company visit and facilitated work during the first weekend of the programme. We visited the Volvo Truck Corporation which is one of the leading producers of heavy trucks and transport solutions within the entire truck industry. We also dropped by the Ericsson Group Headquarters, the world-leading provider of telecommunications equipment and related services to mobile and fixed network operators. And finally we went to visit Mackmyra Swedish malt whisky Distillery. Mackmyra Svensk Whisky AB is an unlisted company owned by around 2,000 shareholders in Sweden and has a very promising corporate growth.

We got on a city sight seeing bus that took us on a tour around the City of Gothenburg. Being the second largest city in the country, Gothenburg is a vital part of Swedish industry, education and culture, business and shipping. There, we stayed at the Gothenburg’s premier hotel, the internationally known Radisson SAS Hotel. It is situated on Gothenburg’s attractive main boulevard, near the cultural center. It’s a sophisticated hotel with a fresh and fashionable ambience.

The next weekend, we were also given the opportunity to get to see some of Stockholm. Stockholm is the capital and the biggest city of Sweden. It is the center for business and cultural life in Scandinavia. Stockholm is one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. Looking out of my room window, I still cannot believe that I was actually there; in this city built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges which remind me of the fairytale land I see in movies that my children would watch over and over. The beautiful buildings, the greenery, the fresh air, and the proximity to the water are like nothing I have never seen before. I was amazed with the rich cultural life of Stockholm which offers a wide selection of world-class museums and attractions. In fact, Stockholm holds the world record for having the highest number of museums, one of which is the Nobel Museum which illustrates a century of creativity and houses of the Nobel Prize winners. We saw the royal guards marching out side the Royal Palace on our way to the docks where there are also sight seeing ships, yachts and other sea vessels.

We also went to “Vasamusset in 1628,” the highly-decorated warship; Vasa sailed from Stockholm on her anticipated maiden voyage and sank. However, three centuries later, in 1961, Vasa was discovered and salvaged, and is now the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship. It has been converted into a museum. The cleverly constructed museum allows one to view it from six levels.

Most of the city’s attractions can be reached on foot, so we went on a stroll and took some snapshots here and there to have a little piece of this wonderful place back home with me.

Another “must see” place in our tour list is the Drottningholm Palace which is just splendidly made. The current Swedish royal family has used Drottningholm as their primary residence since 1981. Since then, the Palace has also been guarded by the Swedish Military in the same fashion as Stockholm Palace. It has been added to the It is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) world heritage site because it is the best example of a royal residence built in the 18th century in Sweden. The gardens and park areas surrounding the castle and its buildings are some of the main attractions for tourists who visit the palace each year. My favorite is the east view façade.

Night came and everyone was very excited to experience the nightlife in Sweden so we went bar hopping. We enjoyed a few shots of Swedish wine and danced to the peculiar yet enticing music. Those were just the tip of the Swedish culture, one of which captivated me the most was the Swedish cuisine! For us Filipinos, a meal would never be complete without rice. There, people eat mostly vegetables and meat. Their dishes are simple and healthful. They are characterized by a sense of practicality and economy. At first, I was a bit hesitant to try eating their food but I found it to be a really good dish to taste though it is nothing like the sophisticated French and Italian cuisine. I easily got used to it but I still miss the rice. In Sweden, it is considered impolite not to finish the food you have on the plate. I served myself most of the time so, I made sure that I put only enough food on my plate that I could consume.

Sure, the adventure that came with the training was more than what I expected it to be but I just could not get enough of Scandinavia just yet. After the program, I stayed for another week with my family friend, Tita Faye Diomaro Agerskov (married to Tito Palle Agerskov, Danish by birth) in Mariestad, a provincial city situated on Lake Vänern. The largest fresh water archipelago in Sweden lies within the city that is why it is visited by many tourists in summer. It was autumn when I went there, the fallen leaves colored the whole place brown, and it was so cold that I have to wear thick clothes, a bonnet, a scarf around my neck and gloves most of the time. It may always be cloudy in that place but its weather can never stop me from exploring its natural beauty. Tita Faye and her husband took me to the Valkommen Till Ekudden for some nature tripping; then we went to visit old churches (one church was built during the 15th century), and farm places. For the business flavor of my trip, Tito Palle and I visited the Volvo Engine Plant and the Electrolux Headquarter in Mariestad. My impression – perfectly high-tech manufacturing facilities!

I also spent some time with my Tita Faye’s friends.  For the love of cooking, I intently observed Tito Palle’s Swedish-style, Swedish food cooking. I learned two and I prepared them for my family and staff as soon as I got back to the Philippines.

Being in Scandinavia is one of the best things that ever happened to my life but as what the royalties always say, “duty calls,” and so with my duties I must get back.

Tacloban City – Machica Group’s staff took a training workshop at English Training Center at the second floor of People’s Center & Library, Real Street, Tacloban City. The six-week training on Basic English and Technical Writing ran from September 5 to October 10, under Doctor Corazon Maye.

The management recognizes the importance of maintaining a good customer service in the industry. One factor of accomplishing that goal is for the staff to be good at oral and written communication. With that reason, the main objective of the staff’s undergoing that training was to improve their English communication skills.

The schedule of the training was every Saturday (1:00-5:00 p.m.).  The whole training was divided into three. The first two weeks was focused of Grammar or Grammatical Structure review; the following two weeks were more on Technical Skills on Report Writing and the last two weeks were a Practicum where participants did an actual writing and followed by an evaluation.

To maximize the value of the training, all personnel were enjoined to be prepared or to review the grammar aspect. Mr. Michael A. Machica, the Founder and Managing partner of the Group, distributed reading materials for them.

Within one and a half months, the participants were honed in the proper usage of the English language which they were able to automatically apply at work.

Machica Group observes the proper phone etiquette as part of the customer friendly image that the Group promotes. The management believes in the importance of giving the clients nothing but the best to improve their services. These continuing studies do not only benefit the clients but the employees as well.

“Life is full of uncertainties, we can’t tell where or what we could be doing tomorrow. I know they won’t always be here in the company but wherever their path takes them, I just hope I was able to help them in their professional growth,” says Mr. Machica. “I just feel like it’s the least I could do to thank these people who helped shape this Group into what it is now,” he added.

The personnel on the other hand are very grateful for the opportunities that the Group’s president is providing for them. “We are really lucky to be given this chance; other employers would have never granted us this kind of opportunity. Especially new employees such as myself, honestly, I don’t even think I deserve this.” says Glaiza, a new member of the Insurance Department of Machica Group.

Human Resource Management is the division of the organization that deals with hiring, firing, training, and other personnel matters. Indeed, in Machica Group’s set-up, the Human Resource Head is empowered to carry out these functions in an efficient, lawful, just, and regular approach. Its objective is to maximize the return on investment from the organization’s human capital and minimize financial and operating risks. It is with this reason that our very own VP completed these two important HR courses.

The Basic HR Program is a short course designed to provide line managers and beginners in the HR field with a basic understanding of Human Resources Management. The Essential of Supervision on the other hand, helps ease the difficulty in the transition of being a team member to becoming a leader of the team. It trains new supervisors how to maintain proper boundaries, set clear goals, handle subordinates professionally, provide effective feedback, motivate staff, and deal with everyday supervisory concerns. Basic HR Programs and Essentials of Supervision were facilitated by Ms. Emily Ann I. Lombos and Mr. Jet F. Magsaysay, respectively. Both Ms. Lombos and Mr. Magsaysay are highly respected members of the Ateneo Faculty with significant consulting experience in HR areas.

The objective of the Basic HR Program is for the participants to understand and assess the role of HR in the organization; analyze a job; write a job description with the necessary competencies and job requirements; conduct a selection interview; analyze performance; create a training and development plan; and increase understanding of employee relations and well-being. The whole course consists of five modules, namely; Strategic Human Resources Management, Human Resources Information System, Employee Selection, Performance and Rewards Management, Employee Development and Employee Relations and Well-Being.

The Essential of Supervision is divided into ten outlines; The Nature of Supervisory Work, Planning, Organizing, Leading, Controlling, Assertiveness, Developing Your Communication Skills, Balancing Task and Relationships,  Motivating, and Dealing with Difficult People and Situations.

Joan started with the Group’s Insurance Division after her three-year stint in a universal bank. She is licensed both for life insurance and non-life insurance by the Office of the Insurance Commission. She is also a registered nurse and has earned units in Masters in Health Sciences.

In a one on one interview, Mrs. Machica confessed that before the said schooling, HR was only a second tier corporate priority. But these two programs which allowed her to bring HR to the forefront and enhance her skills in human resource management. “The class was like a simulation of a real company. It was a practical learning, sort of an “immersion to a workplace,” she explained. “We were taught through case studies and exercises, concepts in managing employee performance as well as pay and benefits,” she added. The learning on the roles and functions of Human Resources was enormous and was simply beyond her expectations. “Topics discussed were profound and the concepts and materials used are highly relevant to our organization,” she said. “Another thing that helped me fully absorb the discussions was the exceptionally supportive resource persons who would always encourage us to interact during discussions,” she added.

Today, Mrs. Machica, together with the governing board and CEO, is strategically positioning the Human Resource as a major critical success factor of the Group.

The CBA program is a graduate-level professional certification based on an MBA curriculum and hence globally recognized as a “Mini-MBA program.” The program focuses on validating ones skills in business management. The CBA (Chartered Business Administrator) designation is awarded to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements and pass the CBA examination.

CABA is the premier professional body for business management professionals in North America. It aims to establish quality business management education globally with its certification programs and diploma courses. Its mission is to raise competency in the field of management and make business administration as a profession through its certification programs, continuing professional development, and code of ethics. Its objective is to ensure that a manager who earns the CBA credential today will acquire professional advantage by establishing his status as competent and credible business administrator.

Donald graduated cum laude from St. Paul’s Business School with a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy in 2005.

Donald started his career with Machica Tan-Cruz & Co. in 2007 as an associate. The following year, he was sponsored by the company to attend two continuing professional educations on marketing namely, Marketing for Non-Marketers (in February) and Service Marketing (in May) at the Ateneo de Manila University Graduate School of Business.

In June 2008, he became one of the team leaders and, this year, he was promoted to Assistant Manager. He is also the business development officer of the Firm for Eastern Visayas. On top of his regular client servicing responsibilities, his professional experience ranges from financial audit, tax review and compliance of individual and large corporations, and internal audit.

Before joining the Firm, Donald had exposure in a manufacturing and export company as an accounting analyst and in the academe as an accounting teacher.

Machica Tan-Cruz & Co. is a member of the Machica Group. The company is considered as one of the largest auditing and consulting firms in the Eastern Visayas region. It has a branch office located at Sta. Ana, Metro Manila. Machica Tan-Cruz & Co. offers a dynamic mix of professional services and solutions that include tax consulting, audit and assurance, strategic and financial planning, business advisory, business and knowledge process outsourcing, among others.

Machica Group is the Philippine’s independent member of The Leading Edge Alliance (a global alliance of independently-owned accounting and consulting firms). With a mission to improve the performance of truly exceptional CPA firms, the Leading Edge Alliance was founded in 1999 in the U. S.