Union of Financial Minds: UC Hosts the 24th Inter-Collegiate Finance Competition (ICFC)

by: JFINEX

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — November 22, 2024
The University of the Cordilleras proudly served as the Baguio hub for the 24th Inter-Collegiate Finance Competition (ICFC), a prestigious nationwide academic event that brought together the brightest minds in finance from across Luzon. In partnership with the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX), the event was a celebration of academic excellence, strategic thinking, and inter-institutional collaboration.

A Showcase of Financial Brilliance

Held at the UC campus, the competition welcomed ten distinguished institutions:

University of the Cordilleras
Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College
Kingfisher School of Business & Finance
Lorma Colleges
Mountain Province State University
Pangasinan State University – San Carlos City Campus
PHINMA University of Pangasinan
Saint Louis College – City of San Fernando
Saint Mary’s University
University of Luzon

Each team competed in a rigorous test of financial knowledge, covering topics such as corporate finance, investment analysis, economics, and ethical business practices.

Guided by Excellence

UC’s student teams were mentored by esteemed faculty members from the College of Business Administration:
Mr. Joe-el S. Marcelo, MBA, Mr. John Carlo B. De Leon, MBA, and Ms. Renee Rose B. Flores, MBA. Their mentorship played a pivotal role in preparing students not only for competition but for future careers in finance, emphasizing both technical expertise and ethical leadership.

A National Platform for Regional Talent

With 97 schools competing simultaneously across the Philippines, the ICFC reaffirmed its role as a premier academic event that promotes inclusivity and excellence. The multi-venue format allowed students from various regions to participate equally, showcasing their skills on a national stage.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Francia R. Santos highlighted the importance of collaboration and unity in shaping the future of finance. She emphasized that the ICFC is not just a competition, but a movement that connects institutions and empowers students to become catalysts of change in the financial industry.

More Than a Competition

The ICFC is a transformative experience that goes beyond academics. It fosters:

Critical thinking and problem-solving
Teamwork and collaboration
Ethical decision-making
National pride and unity

Participants left the event with a deeper understanding of the financial world and a renewed commitment to excellence and integrity.

Shaping Tomorrow’s Financial Leaders

As the financial landscape continues to evolve, events like the ICFC are vital in preparing students to lead with confidence, innovation, and conscience. The University of the Cordilleras remains committed to supporting initiatives that develop globally competitive, socially responsible, and financially literate professionals.