A tale of evolution, resilience, and future aspirations
IN the world of business, where competition is fierce and change is the only constant, a company that thrives for over three decades is nothing short of extraordinary. Alas, Oplas & Co., CPAs (AOC), a Philippines-based professional services firm, is one such remarkable success story. With an illustrious history, a penchant for innovation, and a dash of unwavering teamwork, AOC stands tall as it enters its 34th year with its sights set firmly on the future.
In this special feature article, Malaya Business Insight Special Features Team dived into the pivotal moments that have shaped the company’s journey, unveiled inspiring tales of teamwork, and explored their strategic decisions, setting them apart from the competition.
An evolution spanning three decades
The story of AOC began with humble origins. Marycris Oplas, one of the company’s co-founders, reflected on the journey: “We started as a small firm with around 20 employees, and we have now grown to over 350 people.” A remarkable transformation, indeed. But AOC journey isn’t just about growth in numbers; it’s about growth in expertise, services, and clientele.
In 2014, the company ventured into offshore solutions, expanding their capabilities and clientele. No longer just catering to small and medium-sized enterprises, AOC boldly set its sights on serving larger, listed companies. The realization that investing in IT infrastructure was essential to combat the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime further set them on the path of innovation.
Oplas stressed the importance of sharing their expertise with the world: “Mr. Alas has always emphasized the need to showcase our work and expertise, not just keep it to ourselves.” In an industry known for its discretion, this openness is a refreshing take on success.
“We’ve never stopped seeking solutions to improve our work quality, embracing technology, and providing education and upskilling opportunities to our team members,” said Oplas, highlighting the company’s dedication to continuous improvement.
Additionally, AOC now runs secondment programs for sending staff to other countries and training programs for supervisors, managers, and future leaders. The secret to their success? Evolution and an unwavering commitment to betterment.
The power of teamwork
Inspiring stories of teamwork within the AOC Organization are a testament to their collaborative spirit. When faced with staffing challenges, branches readily support each other to ensure clients’ needs are met. If one branch possesses specific expertise, it steps in to assist others, fostering a culture of mutual support and shared success.
Strategy and challenges in the expansionary phase
As they expanded across the Philippines with a clever branching system, Ryan Sabug, managing partner and another driving force within the company, shared the vision: “Our branches allowed us to tap into a broader pool of talent by locating in areas where many Certified Public Accountant passers were based.”
But with expansion comes challenges, particularly when integrating partners who didn’t originate from AOC. Aligning practices, methodologies, and culture became essential. Distance and the need to fly to visit branches posed logistical challenges. Yet, these obstacles only fueled their determination to adapt to technological changes and maintain consistent quality service. Their long-term vision includes full integration into a digital platform, making collaboration among branches more efficient and seamless.
Client satisfaction: The cornerstone of success
In a fast-paced business world, what sets AOC apart? Sabug explained that it’s their unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality services and prioritizing client satisfaction. They place their clients’ needs first and build strong relationships through excellent service. Their key differentiator? Their belief in delivering top-notch service before focusing on collections. For AOC, client satisfaction comes first.
Sustainability and social responsibility
In a world where sustainability and social responsibility are increasingly crucial, AOC takes its role seriously. The company has implemented a succession plan to ensure the sustainability of its leadership. A flexible work arrangement, adopted even before the pandemic, allows the team to work virtually, all while they invest in enhancing their IT infrastructure.
Memorable moments and events: Lessons for life
Ask any AOC team member about memorable moments, and you’ll hear tales of “breaktime” events. Monthly gatherings, both onsite and virtual, offer a chance for team members to connect, share, and grow. These gatherings often feature spiritual sessions, a heartwarming example of how the company prioritizes its employees’ well-being.
But it’s not just about onsite events. Providing opportunities for team members to travel abroad for training and secondment programs has been transformative. For many, it marked their first journey outside the Philippines, changing their lives in unimaginable ways.
AOC’s joining of BKR International, where they’ve earned recognition as one of the best providers for secondment and outsource services, has been another significant milestone. The company’s Chief Executive Officer Marycris Oplas, even took the global stage as the worldwide chair of BKR International, expanding their reach internationally.
A recipe for success: Advice for the next generation
For those aspiring to embark on a similar journey, Oplas offered wisdom: “Starting a new firm can be challenging. It’s important to have determination and grit.” She emphasized the need to offer something unique to attract top talent. A deep understanding of the evolving business landscape is essential, especially in audit and international outsourcing.
AOC at 34: Looking ahead
As AOC enters its 34th year, the future is brimming with ambition. In the short term, they plan to open more branches in the provinces and identify new partners and directors. They are keen on expanding their reach, particularly in areas with rich opportunities.
Their aspirations, however, reach beyond the immediate future. Alas envisions seeing the iconic green AOC logo on buildings in major business centers across the Philippines. It’s not merely about their achievements or perks; it’s about having their presence recognized in the business world.
But the most profound aspiration comes from Oplas, who believes in the potential of the younger generation to continue the legacy. The key, she asserted, is staying sensitive to changing times and being open to innovation. In a rapidly evolving landscape, the ability to adapt and strive for continuous improvement is the hallmark of enduring success.
Sabug summed it up, saying, “I’m excited about our future. We see AOC as a solid and dynamic company, looking forward to continued growth and embracing new opportunities.”
As for the new partner in charge of Bohol Branch, Atty. Neil Eric Ochoco, the partnership with AOC is a game-changer. It has opened doors to more extensive opportunities and high-quality service provision, shaping a future where growth and success go hand in hand.
Meanwhile, AOC’s senior partners shared their insights, experiences, and the secrets behind the enduring success of AOC.
Glesie Martinez, AOC’s senior partner, unveiled how the company’s journey has been shaped by pivotal moments. One such moment was AOC’s association with International affiliation, which significantly enhanced their service quality and provided a clearer sense of direction. This partnership led to a bold move of disengaging from clients who didn’t meet their quality standards, introducing the concept of succession within the company.
Martinez also highlighted the significance of joining BKR International and Ms. Oplas’s chairmanship, which opened doors to new opportunities. AOC’s branching strategy, with a presence in 11 strategic locations, ensures clients receive top-quality service, no matter where they are.
AOC boasts a talented team of 22 partners and directors. When asked about how the company nurtures a culture of collaboration and innovation, Martinez explained that they foster cross-pollination of ideas by offering a wide range of services to clients. Referrals within the firm serve as a powerful reminder that they can cater to a diverse set of needs, emphasizing the message that together, they are stronger.
Every great success story involves tales of teamwork. Martinez shared an inspiring story of two offices coming together to fulfill a client’s demand for 22 headcounts on a single engagement. This showcases AOC’s unity, commitment, and their ability to tackle challenges head-on.
Martinez believes it’s their team’s drive to go the extra mile, their personalized, client-focused approach, and their streamlined organizational structure that ensures that every client can easily reach their engagement partner, making their services feel personal and unique.
Martinez highlighted the firm’s succession plan as a response to sustainability. AOC has embraced flexible work arrangements and continually invests in improving its IT infrastructure. In terms of social responsibility, AOC takes pride in its culture of diversity and gender equality.
As AOC steps into its 34th year, their vision is clear: they aim for continuous significance and to expand into more territories to serve. They’re prepared to go beyond boundaries, challenge the status quo, and reach even greater heights.
Coincidentally celebrating their 33rd year, Meg Paloyo, partner in charge of Bulacan branch, shared her journey with the company. She emphasized that this 33rd anniversary is a significant milestone for growth and expansion, made possible by the dedicated team at AOC. Their shared vision and spirit of unity enable them to inspire, support, and push each other toward excellence.
Fernan Santos, partner for tax advisory services, recounted their journey from a humble four-member team to a robust 31-member powerhouse. This growth is the result of relentless effort, dedication, and commitment to excellence. Santos acknowledged that the journey wouldn’t have been possible without the guidance of the founding and senior partners and, importantly, the assistance and mercy of a higher power.
Iller Anne Anisco, AOC partner for international outsource, offered invaluable advice to budding entrepreneurs in the same industry. Her wisdom resonates: don’t be afraid to take each step. She encouraged new entrants to embrace the potential of the accounting-audit industry with passion, even when faced with challenges.
Jenny Catapang, AOC managing director for human resources, discussed the power of collaboration and innovation at AOC. Their recently launched #OneAOC program unifies the firm, driving exciting projects that benefit all branches. For Catapang, this anniversary signifies not just the passage of time, but also a bright future brimming with opportunities.
For Racquel Villarante, AOC managing director for business setup and compliance, AOC’s journey has had its share of challenges. She recalled a time when the firm started from scratch after a legal battle. From having no office furniture, they’ve risen to become a thriving entity, supported by resilience, unity, and determination.
Philip Gonzales, AOC partner in charge of the Santiago branch, took us back to the early days when AOC was just beginning. He proudly referred to the firm’s transformation from “nobody to somebody.” This journey has been a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence, professionalism, and utmost confidentiality.
Tina Estorque, AOC partner in charge of the Iloilo branch, added her perspective, emphasizing the significance of the firm’s journey from humble beginnings to excellence. She’s a testament to the empowerment and mentorship she’s received along the way. To Estorque, AOC doesn’t just provide accounting and audit services but also progressive and optimum solutions.
AOC, a story of evolution, teamwork, and vision, demonstrates that even in the most challenging landscapes, commitment to excellence, adaptability, and a strong spirit can lead to three decades of continued success
