In an initiative aimed to strengthen administrative foundations and ensure operational excellence, the Palawan State University community gathered on April 21, 2026, for a comprehensive University-wide Seminar on Internal Control Audit.
Dr. Venzon L. Limpiada, Vice President for Finance and Administration, through his opening message, emphasized the necessity of fiscal responsibility. Meanwhile, OIC
President Prof. Marissa S. Pontillas focused on the vital role of robust internal controls in achieving the University’s mission and stressed that the management and utilization of government resources must strictly adhere to established laws and regulations. She underscored the importance of safeguarding university assets against loss or wastage resulting from illegal or improper use.
Ms. Charity E. Cabrestante, Deputy Director of the Internal Audit Services Unit, then introduced the distinguished resource speaker, Dr. Jonathan A. Gabriel, CPA, DBA, an expert holding leadership roles as DBM Accredited Speaker in Internal Auditing, Board of Director in the Association of Government Internal Auditors, President of the State Universities and Colleges Internal Auditors’ Association, and Head of Internal Audit Unit of Tarlac State University.
During the morning session, Dr. Gabriel discussed the Internal Control System and thoroughly clarified the pivotal role internal audit plays in university operations. Participants gained technical insights into the full audit lifecycle, spanning audit engagement planning, execution, reporting, and follow-up. This was followed by an engaging Q&A session that allowed participants to address specific operational concerns and clarify complex audit processes. In the afternoon, the focus shifted toward the Orientation on Internal Control System and Internal Audit, where Dr. Gabriel guided the group through the frameworks, components, and objectives that form the backbone of effective internal control. This understanding ensures that every department can accurately measure and improve its own administrative health.
The seminar concluded with a message from Engr. Jerico M. Padrones, Director of the Integrated Planning, Quality Assurance, and Internal Audit (IPQAIA) Office, who reinforced that internal audit is a collaborative tool for continuous quality improvement rather than mere compliance. By empowering personnel with these specialized tools, the university continues to uphold the highest standards of transparency and integrity in its service to the community.
