By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on

From L to R – Dr. Lorna T. Grande (Dean-CBA), Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy (CPU President), Atty. Ma. Cristina T. Montelibano (SEC Iloilo, Director II), and Mr. Jay P. Gadong during the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement.

In order to enhance financial literacy and safeguard investors against fraudulent schemes, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) joined forces with Central Philippine University (CPU) through an Investor Education Roadshow Programme and a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on March 16, 2024 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, CPU. The event was attended by about 400 students from the CPU College of Business and Accountancy.

The project, termed ” SEC Communication, Advocacy and Network (SEC CAN!)” aims to educate Filipinos on personal finance management, differentiate between savings and investments, and raise awareness about spotting and avoiding investment scams.

The event commenced with preliminaries including the singing of the national anthem and an opening prayer. Messages were delivered by Atty. Ma. Cristina T. Montelibano, Director II of SEC-Iloilo Extension Office, and Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, the President of Central Philippine University.

Atty. Ma. Cristina T. Montelibano, Director II of SEC-Iloilo Extension Office, delivers her talk during the Investor Education Roadshow Programme.

The MOA signing underscored the commitment of both parties to collaborate in designing, developing, and implementing financial literacy programs and activities aimed at empowering Filipinos, particularly students, faculty, and staff of CPU, with essential knowledge and skills for sound financial management.

The collaboration also includes efforts to combat investment scams through joint programs and interventions. Notable speakers, including Atty. Montelibano and Atty. Arnold G. Diaz from the National Bureau of Investigation Western Visayas Office, shed light on the intricacies of identifying and avoiding fraudulent investment schemes.

Ms. Daffodil P. Anastacio, Branch Manager of RCBC Jaro, and Ms. Siona Mae H. Dearos, Business Relationship Officer of RCBC Jaro, along with Ms. Karlyn Jane M. Castor, Bancassurance Sales Officer, elucidated on the basics of savings, investments, and how to open a savings account during the program.

The MOA outlines the responsibilities of both SEC and CPU, emphasizing their mutual commitment to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth while ensuring investor protection. It also delineates the project’s scope, objectives, and beneficiaries, which encompass various sectors of society, including the general public, students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees.

Furthermore, the agreement includes provisions for compliance with relevant laws, dispute resolution mechanisms, and the protection of intellectual property rights.

The collaboration between SEC and CPU signifies a crucial step towards fostering financial literacy and protecting investors from fraudulent schemes, thereby contributing to the overall economic empowerment of Filipinos. The initiative is expected to pave the way for a more informed and resilient investor community in the Philippines.