Rodi Orantia, FCPA
PICPA Australia Chapter
Rodi Orantia is the Principal of Colby Business Services Pty Ltd, a Registered Tax Agent with more than 40 years of experience in taxation, financial planning, and business advisory. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Western Sydney University, is a Fellow of CPA Australia and the Chartered Governance Institute, and specialises in tax strategy for high-net-worth individuals, small businesses, and self-managed superannuation funds. Rodi has received Certificate of Completion on (a) Introduction to AI and Ethics (b) AI Applications in Accounting from CPA Australia .
A respected leader in the professional and business community, Rodi is the Founding President and Current Director and CFO of the Australian Philippine Chamber of Commerce (APCCI). Throughout his career, he has contributed to various organisations and community initiatives, including serving as a member of the Fair Trading Advisory Council (NSW), former Convenor of the Norwest Practising Accountants Group, President of PICPA Australia, and a leader within UST Alumni Australia and Philippine Australia Community Services. He is also a recipient of the Jaycees Ambassador Award for his community contributions. Rodi regularly presents on events and seminars on the subject of SUCCESS STORY 10 PROPERTIES IN 10 YEARS AND TRAVEL THE WORLD.
Through his leadership and commitment to strengthening Australia–Philippines business relations, Rodi continues to support APCCI's mission of fostering trade, investment, and professional partnerships. He also works with the APCCI leadership team on initiatives such as reviving and reintroducing the APCCI Investments, Tourism & Trade Expo, helping create new opportunities for businesses and investors across both countries.
Jess Arranz, CPA, FIPA
Jess Arranz is a professional accountant with over 40 years of experience in project development/management, capital budgeting, business process improvement and strategy and public practice. He held management positions in finance, infrastructure and service industries. He had significant experience in integrating financial systems of companies that undergo mergers or acquisitions. Examples of corporations and organisations that he worked for are Westpac, St George Bank, Insurance Australia Group, News Limited, Sydney Water, University of Technology, Sydney, and Western Sydney University.
He is a member of the Australian Society of Certified Practising Accountants and a Fellow of the Institute of Public Accountants. He did a business degree from the University of the Philippines, and completed a Master of Commerce (Accounting) degree from the University of New South Wales.
After retiring from the corporate sector 12 years ago, he set up a public practice that offers accounting and tax services for small businesses and individuals. He is also an ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission) - approved self-managed super fund auditor.
Vee Perez
Violeta “Vee” Perez, CPA, is a finance, technology, and digital transformation professional with more than 20 years of experience across IT, finance, energy, healthcare, and consulting in Australia and the Philippines. Her career includes leadership and consulting roles with organisations such as Oracle, Deloitte, NSW Health, AMP, Hewlett Packard, Worley Parsons, and Ernst & Young.
A Chartered Accountant and experienced mortgage broker, Vee combines financial expertise with strategic business transformation, change management, and technology leadership. She has led complex initiatives involving finance systems, ERP, EPM, HCM, Agile transformation, and organisational change, helping organisations improve processes and achieve sustainable outcomes.
Vee is passionate about financial empowerment, women’s advancement, and supporting newcomers to Australia. She brings a people-focused approach to helping individuals and businesses achieve greater financial clarity, confidence, and growth.
Agnes Aclan
Finance, Audit & Technology Professional | AI in Business | Banking & Financial Services Specialist
Agnes is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) from the Philippines and an ASEAN CPA with a strong foundation in finance, audit, information technology, and emerging digital solutions. She combines extensive audit and financial expertise with a background in Computer Science, enabling her to bridge the gap between business, finance, and technology.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the Philippines and a Master of AI in Business from Australia, providing her with a unique perspective on how organizations can leverage digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making to achieve strategic objectives.
With significant experience in the audit of Banking Financial Institutions (BFIs) and Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), Agnes has developed deep expertise in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, risk assessment, internal controls, governance, and process improvement. Her professional experience spans complex financial environments where accuracy, integrity, and regulatory adherence are critical to organizational success.
Agnes is passionate about helping businesses optimize operations through the integration of technology and financial best practices. Her unique combination of accounting and IT expertise allows her to identify opportunities for automation, improve financial processes, strengthen controls, and enhance business performance.
As a member of PICPA Australia, she remains committed to professional excellence, continuous learning, and staying at the forefront of industry developments in accounting, finance, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation.
Combining accounting excellence, audit expertise, and advanced technology knowledge to help organizations improve governance, strengthen financial integrity, and drive innovation through digital and AI-enabled solutions.
Josephine De los Reyes
Josephine Remotigue De Los Reyes is a respected Filipino–Australian Certified Public Accountant and Justice of the Peace whose career spans education, community leadership, journalism, and public service.
Born and raised in Manila, Josephine earned her Bachelor of Science in Commerce from Centro Escolar University, later teaching Accounting before expanding her professional journey to Papua New Guinea and eventually migrating to Australia.
A long‑standing pillar of the Filipino–Australian community, Josephine served as President of the Association of Australian Filipino Accountants, where she actively supported newly arrived accountants in building networks and integrating into the community. For more than 35 years, she has also been a columnist and reporter for Philippine–Australian community newspapers, amplifying stories that connect and empower the diaspora.
Her commitment to service extends across numerous organizations. She has held leadership roles including:
Internal Auditor, Australia Philippine Community Organizations, Treasurer, Sedgwick Housing Cooperative Ltd, Treasurer, National Affiliation of Respectable and Responsible Associations (NARRA) Cooperative Ltd, President, Blessed Pedro Calungsod Association
As a Justice of the Peace, Josephine takes pride in supporting Filipino–Australian families and individuals through accessible, community‑focused service. In 2018, she was honored as Ambassador for Culture and the Arts at the Pamana Ball of NARRA Cooperative Ltd for her outstanding contributions to community service.
Beyond her professional and civic roles, Josephine is known for her love of dancing and her passion for Filipino cultural activities. She continues to be an active and inspiring presence in community events and organizations. Josephine is a proud member of PICPA Australia, where she contributes her experience, leadership, and dedication to uplifting Filipino–Australian CPAs.
Dads Morales
Dads Morales is a respected finance executive and systems advisor with more than 45 years of leadership experience across mining, manufacturing, hospitality and large-scale property development. A CPA Australia member and Associate Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management, he is recognised for strategic clarity, systems expertise and calm executive leadership.
During nearly three decades with Australand Holdings Group, Dads rose to General Manager Finance, overseeing treasury, reporting, budgeting, forecasting, project appraisal, risk management and enterprise systems. He was also a key contributor to Australand’s dual public listing in Singapore and Australia. He later held senior financial leadership roles with Iris Hotel Group, Payce and BDS Group, strengthening financial controls and guiding organisations through major structural transitions.
From 2011 to 2025, he served as Group Financial Controller at Sekisui House Australia, leading consolidated reporting to Japan headquarters, modernising financial systems, automating tax and statutory reporting, and supporting sustained growth and digital transformation. He now serves as Finance Systems Advisor, continuing to enhance financial reporting, systems and operational capability.
Mario Pleno
Mario Pleno is a highly credentialed accounting, taxation and migration advisory professional with more than 40 years of experience across Australia, Papua New Guinea and the Philippines. He brings extensive expertise in corporate finance, accounting, taxation, auditing, cost accounting, migration law and professional practice management. Mario’s career spans multinational organisations, government-contracted migration services and private professional practice. His corporate experience includes roles with Guazon Lime Incorporated, GA Machinery Incorporated, the PNG Electricity Commission and Kellogg’s Australia Pty Ltd.
He has served as Managing Partner of Felsch, Pleno & Associates and Principal of M Pleno & Associates, providing accounting, taxation and migration advisory services to individuals, SMEs and community organisations. He has also provided migration services under contract to the Department of Immigration & Citizenship.
Mario is a CPA and Life Member of PICPA, Registered Migration Agent, Registered Tax Agent and Chartered Tax Adviser. He holds qualifications from the University of the East and UTS. As an APCCI member, he supports stronger Australia–Philippines business and community connections.
Reynaldo Morcilla
Community Leader | Finance Professional | Filipino-Australian Advocate
Reynaldo Morcilla, CPA, is a respected Filipino-Australian community leader and finance professional known for his commitment to community development, cultural engagement, and leadership excellence. Throughout his years of service, he has played an active role in strengthening connections within the Filipino-Australian community across New South Wales while contributing to initiatives that promote inclusivity, collaboration, and community empowerment.
As a Certified Public Accountant, Rey brings strong professional discipline, integrity, and governance principles to both his professional and community endeavors. He is a proud member of PICPA Australia, supporting the advancement of Filipino accounting professionals and fostering professional excellence within the Australian business environment.
Rey has held leadership and advisory positions in several community organizations, including Plaza Filipino, where he has contributed to programs that celebrate Filipino heritage, support community engagement, and strengthen multicultural relationships. His involvement has helped build meaningful partnerships among community groups, government agencies, and cultural organizations.
A recognized advocate for family values and community service, Rey was honored as Father of the Year in Sydney, reflecting his dedication to family leadership, mentorship, and positive community impact. His contributions have also been acknowledged through various community and consular events associated with the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, where he has supported initiatives that foster unity and engagement among Filipino-Australians.
Awarded Outstanding Alumni of Saint Louis University, Baguio City
Leo Ceniza
Leo D. Ceniza is a Certified Practising Accountant and Registered Migration Agent with more than 40 years of professional experience in accounting, taxation, corporate finance, business advisory, and migration services. He began his career in senior finance and accounting roles with multinational organisations, including Berger Paints (Australia) Pty Ltd, Australian Howmedica, and Brother Industries, progressing to Financial Controller.
In 1990, Leo established his own public accounting practice, providing professional services to individuals and businesses across various industries. To date, the practice has supported more than 1,500 clients.
In 1997, after completing the Migration Law Program at the University of New South Wales with Distinction, Leo expanded his practice to include migration services. Since then, he has assisted hundreds of clients with skilled, business, family, and student visa pathways. Leo is committed to providing practical, ethical, personalised, and professional advice, helping clients make informed decisions and confidently build their future in Australia.
Julieta Roldan-Navarro
Tax Accountant | Governance & Risk Specialist | Life Coach & Author
Julieta Navarro is a highly experienced tax accountant and governance professional with 18 years at the Australian Taxation Office, where she held key positions across GST Large Business and Internationals, Small to Medium Enterprise, and High Wealth Individuals divisions. Her work included complex audits involving anti-tax avoidance schemes and various Trust cases related to property deals, giving her deep expertise in tax compliance, audit, and risk investigation.
Prior to her role at the ATO, Julieta held a range of senior positions at the former Electricity Trust of South Australia, including Senior Financial Auditor and Commercial Manager for Property Development and Support Services, where she led the team through ISO 9002 Certification. She also served as Energy Trading Settlements Manager and Database Manager for Retail and Commercial Customers, and represented South Australia in the establishment of the National Electricity Markets Company (NEMMCO).
Julieta holds a Master in Taxation from the University of New South Wales and an MBA from the University of the Philippines, and completed a Diploma in Quality Auditing from the Global Training Institute in 2024 — reflecting her ongoing commitment to professional development across finance, audit, and quality management.
Beyond her accounting career, Julieta is a Certified Life Coach through the Brave Thinking Institute (USA) and an Owner Practitioner of Transformational Life Coaching. She is also an author and independent publisher with Pink Tulip Stories Publishing. For over 20 years, she has been involved in community activities mentoring youth in South Australia, and she currently volunteers with NARRA Co-operative Ltd's Project 500, contributing her expertise in strategic management, quality, risk management, and governance.
Ric De Vera
Ricardo De Vera, CPA, KGOR, Building Businesses, Strengthening Communities, Inspiring Generations
For more than four decades, Ricardo "Ric" De Vera, CPA, KGOR has been a respected accountant, business leader, and one of the most influential Filipino-Australian community advocates in New South Wales. While his professional achievements are significant, his greatest legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to empowering the Filipino community, fostering unity, and creating opportunities for future generations. A Lifetime of Community Leadership, Ric has dedicated much of his life to serving the Filipino-Australian community through visionary leadership, institution-building, and volunteer service. His contributions have helped shape some of Australia's most recognised Filipino organisations, many of which continue to thrive today. As a former President of the Philippine Community Council of NSW (PCC-NSW), the umbrella body representing Filipino organisations across New South Wales, Ric strengthened collaboration among community groups and amplified the voice of Filipino Australians in government, business, and multicultural affairs. As President of FILCCA, the national peak body representing Filipino organisations throughout Australia, he played a critical role in expanding national representation by helping establish State and Territory councils in the Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania, and Western Australia, creating a stronger and more connected Filipino-Australian network nationwide. Creating Lasting Institutions
Ric is a Founding Director of PICPA Australia and the Filipino Business Council Inc., now known as the Australia Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Through these organisations, he helped create professional and business platforms that connected Filipino professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, advancing economic and professional opportunities for Filipino Australians. His leadership in organising the Filipino Business Awards recognised and celebrated business excellence within the community, inspiring future entrepreneurs and elevating the profile of Filipino - owned businesses across Australia. Championing Filipino Heritage, Currently serving as President of Kalayaan Inc. (2025 - 2027), Ric continues to promote Filipino culture, heritage, and unity.Under his leadership, Kalayaan's flagship events, including the annual Kalayaan Cup Golf Tournament, have become enduring traditions that bring together community leaders, professionals, business owners, and families in celebration of Philippine Independence and Filipino achievements. For more than three decades, these initiatives have strengthened cultural pride, built friendships, and supported community causes. Professional Excellence with Community Purpose.
A member of CPA Australia since 1977 and a registered Tax Practitioner since 1982, Ric was among the pioneering Filipino accountants in Australia and is recognised as the first Filipino CPA Tax Practitioner in Australia.Throughout his career, he has mentored individuals, families, and business owners, helping them achieve financial security and business success.His professional accomplishments have always been matched by a deep commitment to giving back to the community.Recognition of Distinguished Service In recognition of his exceptional contributions to leadership, civic service, and the promotion of Filipino values, Ric was elevated to the rank of Knight Grand Officer of Rizal(KGOR) in 2023, one of the highest honours bestowed by the Order of the Knights of Rizal Legacy Ricardo De Vera's impact extends far beyond accounting and business. Through decades of leadership, mentorship, and community building, he has helped shape the Filipino-Australian community into a stronger, more connected, and more influential presence in Australia. His legacy is reflected not only in the organisations he helped build, but in the countless individuals and families whose lives have been enriched by his service, leadership, and dedication. A community is strengthened when its leaders create opportunities for others to succeed. Ric De Vera's lifelong service exemplifies that principle.
Jaime Lopez
Dr. Jaime R. Lopez, CPA, is a Certified Practising Accountant in Australia and the Philippines. He is President of Sedgwick Housing Co-operative Ltd, Senior Consultant at Australian Funeral Plan, Senior Manager of Megaward Property and founder of NARRA Coop Ltd, into whose Hall of Fame he was later inducted.
He holds a BSc in Commerce (accounting) from Saint Louis University (1970), an MBA and MAT from Baguio Colleges Foundation (1979/1982), and a PhD in Education from Saint Louis University (1989). He formerly served as Dean of the College of Commerce at Baguio Central University, and has been Professor at Saint Louis University Graduate School. He was Awarded Outstanding Alumni of San Nicolas Academy, Saint Louis College, Baguio Colleges Foundation and Saint Louis University
In Australia, his honours include the Outstanding Community Leader award (Filipino Communities Council of Australia), the Community Citizen Award (Campbelltown City Council), and Father of the Year (September 2020, Narra Co-op Ltd). Received Several Awards as TOP Consultant of World Book Encyclopedia, MacArthur Memorial Park, Megaworld Property, Property Investment Alliance, Megaward Property, Australian Funeral Plan and IFERN Australia.