IFAC
IFAC
IFAC
The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) is a global organization for the accountancy
profession, established in 1977, representing over 3 million accountants worldwide. IFAC's mission
is to serve the public interest by strengthening the global accountancy profession through high-
quality international standards, advocacy, and support for professional accountants.
Explanation:
IFAC works to enhance the relevance, reputation, and value of the global accountancy profession.
It achieves this by promoting high-quality international standards, including those for auditing,
assurance, ethics, and accounting education, as well as advocating for the profession’s role in
serving the public interest. IFAC’s International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA)
develops the International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants, which serves as a
foundation for ethical standards around the world.
Importance:
The role of IFAC is crucial in ensuring that accountants and auditors operate within a globally
accepted ethical and professional framework, fostering trust in financial reporting and business
practices. By promoting transparency, integrity, and ethical behavior, IFAC helps maintain the
public's confidence in the accountancy profession, thus contributing to the smooth functioning of
capital markets and economies.
Definition:
The Philippine Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants is a set of ethical guidelines and
principles that govern the conduct of accountants in the Philippines. It is based on the
International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants issued by IFAC's IESBA and is adapted to
reflect local practices and regulations.
Explanation:
This code provides guidance on fundamental ethical principles such as integrity, objectivity,
professional competence, confidentiality, and professional behavior. Accountants in the Philippines
are expected to adhere to these principles in their professional work, ensuring their services are
carried out with honesty, fairness, and without bias. It applies to all accountants, including
auditors, consultants, and those in business or public practice.
The Code addresses potential ethical threats such as self-interest, advocacy, and conflicts of
interest, offering a framework for accountants to navigate such situations. Additionally, it outlines
specific responsibilities in terms of reporting fraud, disclosing information, and handling conflicts
of interest.
Importance:
The Philippine Code of Ethics ensures that professional accountants maintain the highest standards
of ethical conduct, contributing to the credibility and trustworthiness of financial information,
which is vital for decision-making by businesses, governments, and investors. Ethical standards
help protect the public, promote fair competition, and prevent corruption or fraud, enhancing the
overall quality of the accountancy profession in the country.
By aligning with global standards like IFAC’s, the Philippine Code of Ethics ensures that Filipino
accountants can operate within both local and international contexts, fostering global trust in the
country’s financial reporting.