In celebration of the 2024 Investor Protection Week (IPW), the Securities and Exchange Commission-Tarlac Extension Office (SEC-TAREO) conducted a campus roadshow and seminar on personal finance and investment scam prevention at the Tarlac State University- Lucinda Campus last November 19. Over 250 accounting students from TSU attended the event in partnership with the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA)-Tarlac Chapter and the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA)-TSU Chapter.
With the theme “Wais sa Pinansya, Sigurado sa Kinabukasan,” the SEC aims to highlight the importance of effectively managing, saving, and investing one’s money to ensure a secure future in this year’s 2024 IPW celebration. Inspired by Disney Pixar’s hit film Inside Out, the SEC introduced five emotions that influence people’s financial decisions, namely: Wais, Tipid, Duda, Waldas, and Gipit.
SEC-TAREO lawyers Director Richard R. Laus, Securities Counsels Ma. Theresa L. Reotutar and Emerald L. Lansangan served as resource speakers focusing on financial literacy and protecting individuals from fraudulent schemes. Topics included strategies for effective personal finance management, recognizing red flags of investment scams, and understanding the legal repercussions of participating in illegal investment activities.
In his message, SEC- TAREO Director Atty. Richard R. Laus emphasized the significance of this seminar amid the growing prevalence of investment scams and illegal financial activities.
“In today’s digital age, we are witnessing a surge in fraudulent investment schemes that exploit people’s trust and financial aspirations. Investor education is crucial in protecting ourselves and our families from these deceptive practices and financial literacy is our shield against financial ruin,” Director Laus said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Henry D. Rufino, Associate Dean of the TSU College of Business and Accountancy and Regional Sectoral Representative for Education of PICPA-Tarlac, also underscored the value of this collaboration with SEC-Tarlac reflecting their shared commitment to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions.
“This seminar is timely and essential, especially with the alarming rise of investment scams and illegal financial activities making headlines. We aim to cultivate a generation of financially savvy individuals who can contribute to a more secure and transparent economy,” Dr. Rufino stated.
By virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 846, the Securities and Exchange Commission leads the annual observance and celebration of Investor Protection Week reaffirming its dedication to advancing financial literacy and investor protection, vowing to intensify its advocacy through partnerships towards a more informed and resilient Filipino investing public.
