The Association of Internal Auditors, Inc. (AGIA), renowned for its excellence in providing quality and primary training for public sector agencies and offices, held its 9th Forum for Heads of Internal Audit in the Public Sector on May 10, 202, at the Seda Vertis North Hotel, Quezon City.
This year’s theme, “Future-Proofing Internal Audit: Harnessing Emerging Technologies and Adapting to Organizational Changes” drew around 110 participants from national government agencies (NGAs), government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), government financial institutions (GFIs), state universities and colleges (SUCs) and the local government units (LGUs).
AGIA President Dinah E. Pichay opened the event with a welcoming address, emphasizing the crucial role of internal audit in organizational governance and the importance of leveraging and harnessing technology to enhance audit processes.
The forum was adeptly hosted by Dir. Cristina S. Rosario, AGIA Treasurer and Internal Auditor V of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and Dir. Daniel L. Ambasán, AGIA Executive Vice President and Internal Auditor V of the Anti-Red Tape Authority. Their facilitation ensured participants gained valuable insights and actively engaged with the forum’s content.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address by Honorable Cynthia S. Vergara, the newly appointed Assistant Executive Secretary (AES) for Internal Audit of the Office of the President. AES Vergara shared her inspiring journey to becoming an effective auditor and discussed challenges in future-proofing the internal audit service. She emphasized the importance of harmonizing the internal audit policies and strengthening partnership with Commission on Audit (COA), motivating attendees to pursue their careers with determination and resilience.
The forum explored the latest trends and advancements in technology relevant to internal auditing. It provided a platform for thought leaders to discuss the future trajectory of internal audit amidst technological and organizational changes, equipping attendees with actionable insights and practical tools.
Distinguished resource speakers led the technical learning sessions entitled, “Global Internal Audit Standards and Emerging Technologies” and “Revised Guidelines on the Organization and Staffing of Internal Audit Units”.
Assistant Governor Mary Jane T. Chiong of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) shared BSP’s strategic plan and initiatives to ensure consistency, quality, and integrity in their internal audit.
Ms. Anna Marie Magno-Pabellon of Deloitte Philippines discussed the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing the audit processes, risk assessment and management, decision-making, and overall efficiency and effectiveness in auditing.
Director John Aries S. Macaspac of the Department of Budget and Management highlighted the key points of the revised guidelines on the organization and staffing of Internal Audit Units (IAUs) to meet the evolving demands.
The forum equipped participants with a fresh mindset to embrace new knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to enhance audit productivity. By showcasing institutions that have significantly advanced in audit efficiency and effectiveness, the forum underscored the integration of AI and other emerging technologies into internal audit practices. Adhering to global internal audit standards and recent guidelines ensures organizations are well-prepared to handle future challenges and opportunities, improving risk management and compliance.
Forum Chairperson and DOST Internal Audit Service Director, Maria Teresa B. De Guzman concluded the event by encouraging attendees to implement the knowledge gained in their respective offices, and to strive for the highest standards in internal auditing. She challenged participants to stay at the forefront of internal audit advancements and to be part of AGIA’s network, where innovation and excellence in public sector auditing continue to thrive.
For those committed to be ahead in internal audit and network with peers, AGIA’s forums are invaluable. We look forward to seeing you at future events where public sector auditing continues to evolve and excel.
Participating agencies include the following:
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