Moral compass of a certified public accountant (CPA): A literature review

 Jesus B. Reyes, CPA, MBA

DIVINE WORD COLLEGE OF LAOAG, Laoag City, August 2024

Abstract

This paper explores the moral compass guiding Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in the Philippines. It examines the ethical frameworks, principles, and challenges faced by CPAs in their professional duties. The study includes a comprehensive literature review covering various aspects such as professional ethics, regulatory standards, and an actual ethical dilemma. Through this exploration, the paper aims to highlight the importance of a strong ethical foundation in ensuring the integrity and reliability of financial reporting and auditing. The author concludes that by fostering a strong ethical foundation, CPAs can contribute to the integrity and reliability of financial reporting and uphold the trust of clients, stakeholders, and the public.

Keywords: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), morality, ethics, Code of Conduct, ethical behavior, ethical dilemma

 Introduction

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) play a critical role in the financial system, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and trust in financial reporting. Their responsibilities go beyond mere number crunching; they serve as guardians of financial integrity, providing assurance to stakeholders about the veracity of financial statements. In the Philippines, the significance of CPAs is amplified due to the complex economic landscape and stringent regulatory environment. As such, understanding the ethical frameworks that guide their professional conduct is paramount.

The moral compass of CPAs is guided by various ethical theories, professional codes of conduct, and regulatory frameworks. Ethical behavior in accounting is essential for maintaining public trust, particularly in the face of financial scandals that have eroded confidence in the profession globally. In the Philippines, the Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy (BOA) has established a comprehensive Code of Ethics that sets the standards for professional conduct. Adherence to these ethical principles ensures that CPAs uphold the highest standards of integrity and transparency.

Cultural values also play a significant role in shaping the ethical perceptions and behaviors of CPAs in the Philippines. The collectivist nature of Filipino society emphasizes relationships, family, and community, which can sometimes create conflicts between personal loyalties and professional responsibilities. For instance, the concept of "hiya" (shame) can deter whistleblowing, while "pakikisama" (smooth interpersonal relationships) may pressure CPAs to prioritize personal bonds over ethical principles. Understanding these cultural nuances is essential for addressing ethical challenges effectively.

Moreover, the ethical development of CPAs begins with their education. Integrating ethics into the accounting curriculum is crucial for equipping future professionals with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex ethical dilemmas. Ethics education helps students develop a strong moral foundation, fostering virtues such as honesty, diligence, and fairness. By engaging with real-life case studies and ethical scenarios, students learn to apply ethical principles to their professional practice, preparing them for the ethical challenges they will face in their careers.

This paper aims to explore the various dimensions of the moral compass of CPAs in the Philippines. Through an extensive literature review, it will investigate the ethical theories, professional codes of conduct, and cultural influences that shape the ethical behavior of CPAs. Additionally, it will examine the role of corporate governance, ethics education, and regulatory frameworks in promoting ethical accountability. By providing a comprehensive understanding of these factors, this study seeks to highlight the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in the accounting profession and the critical role CPAs play in ensuring the integrity of financial reporting.

Literature review

Ethical Theories and Accounting

Ethical theories provide the foundational principles that guide CPAs in their professional conduct. Utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics are some of the key theories that influence decision-making in accounting. Utilitarianism emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number, which can sometimes conflict with strict adherence to rules. For instance, a utilitarian approach may lead a CPA to support decisions that benefit the majority of stakeholders, even if such decisions slightly bend the rules (Sison & Fontrodona, 2022).

Deontology, on the other hand, focuses on duty and adherence to ethical rules, aligning closely with the Code of Ethics for CPAs in the Philippines. This theory advocates for actions that comply with moral norms and regulations, regardless of the outcome. For CPAs, this means prioritizing honesty and transparency in financial reporting over the potential benefits of misreporting for personal or organizational gain. Deontological ethics underscores the importance of following the established professional standards and regulatory requirements to maintain the integrity of the profession (Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy, 2016). 

Virtue ethics emphasizes the character and moral virtues of the accountant, promoting integrity, honesty, and fairness in all professional activities. This approach suggests that ethical behavior stems from the personal virtues of the individual rather than external rules or consequences. For CPAs, cultivating virtues such as honesty, diligence, and fairness is crucial in fostering trust and reliability in their work. Virtue ethics encourages accountants to develop a strong moral character, which naturally leads to ethical decision-making and professional conduct (Thorne, 2018). 

Professional codes of conduct

The Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy (BOA) in the Philippines has established a Code of Ethics for CPAs, which serves as a guiding document for ethical behavior. This code outlines principles such as integrity, objectivity, professional competence, confidentiality, and professional behavior. Adherence to these principles ensures that CPAs maintain public trust and uphold the reputation of the profession. The Code of Ethics provides a framework for ethical decision-making, helping CPAs navigate complex professional situations.

Integrity. This is the cornerstone of ethical behavior for CPAs. It requires accountants to be honest and forthright in all professional and business relationships. Integrity means that CPAs must present financial information accurately and without bias, regardless of any personal or external pressures. This ethical principle is essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring that stakeholders can rely on the financial statements provided. The emphasis on integrity also means that CPAs must avoid any actions that might bring dishonor to the profession, even if those actions might seem beneficial in the short term.

Integrity involves more than just honesty; it also encompasses a commitment to moral principles such as fairness and impartiality. For example, a CPA who discovers financial discrepancies must address them transparently, rather than concealing errors to avoid potential backlash. This principle reinforces the importance of ethical behavior even when faced with difficult decisions. Upholding integrity ensures that the CPA’s work is reliable and credible, thereby supporting the overall stability and trustworthiness of the financial system.

Objectivity. This requires CPAs to be impartial and free from conflicts of interest in their professional duties. This principle ensures that their judgments are based on verifiable data and unbiased analysis rather than personal interests or external influences. Objectivity is particularly important given the close-knit nature of business relationships and the potential for familial and social ties to influence professional decisions. By maintaining objectivity, CPAs can provide accurate and fair financial reports that reflect the true state of an organization’s finances.

Objectivity is essential in audit and assurance services, where CPAs must evaluate financial statements and provide opinions based solely on evidence and professional standards. It also extends to other areas such as tax preparation and consulting, where CPAs must give advice that is in the best interest of their clients while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines. Objectivity helps prevent the manipulation of financial information and ensures that all stakeholders receive an accurate and unbiased view of an organization’s financial health.

Professional competence and due care.  This requires CPAs to maintain their knowledge and skills at a high level, ensuring that they can provide competent professional services. This involves continuous learning and professional development to keep up with changes in accounting standards, laws, and best practices. In the Philippines, the dynamic economic environment and evolving regulatory landscape necessitate that CPAs remain up-to-date with current developments to offer relevant and accurate advice to their clients and employers.

Professional competence also involves applying due care in all professional engagements, meaning that CPAs must act diligently and in accordance with applicable technical and professional standards. This ensures that the work performed meets the expected quality and reliability. For instance, a CPA preparing financial statements must adhere to the Philippine Financial Reporting Standards (PFRS) and Philippine Accounting Standards (PAS) and ensure that all disclosures are complete and accurate. By demonstrating professional competence, CPAs enhance the credibility of their services and contribute to the trustworthiness of financial reporting.

Confidentiality. CPAs are required to respect the privacy of information obtained during professional engagements and to refrain from disclosing it without proper authorization or legal obligation. This principle is crucial in maintaining the trust of clients and other stakeholders who rely on CPAs to handle sensitive financial information responsibly. In the Philippines, where business relationships often extend beyond formal contracts, maintaining confidentiality is key to preserving professional integrity and trust.

CPAs must be vigilant in protecting confidential information from unauthorized access or disclosure. This involves implementing appropriate safeguards and being cautious about discussing client information in public or informal settings. Confidentiality also extends to former clients, meaning that CPAs must continue to protect their information even after the professional relationship has ended. Adhering to this principle helps prevent conflicts of interest and ensures that clients can trust CPAs with their sensitive financial data.

Professional behavior. This entails complying with relevant laws and regulations and avoiding any actions that could discredit the profession. This principle encompasses a wide range of ethical conduct, including honesty, respect, and responsibility in all professional interactions. In the Philippines, CPAs are expected to act in a manner that reflects well on the profession, promoting public confidence in their services.

Professional behavior includes adhering to the Professional Code of Ethics for CPAs, which sets forth guidelines for ethical conduct. It also involves being accountable for one’s actions and decisions, demonstrating reliability, and maintaining a high standard of work. CPAs must avoid actions that could be perceived as unethical or that could harm the reputation of the profession. This includes avoiding conflicts of interest, not engaging in fraudulent activities, and being transparent in all professional dealings.

By upholding professional behavior, CPAs contribute to the overall integrity and trustworthiness of the accounting profession. They serve as role models for ethical conduct, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability that benefits clients, stakeholders, and the broader financial community (Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy, 2016).

Ethical decision-making models

Ethical decision-making models provide a structured approach for CPAs to resolve ethical dilemmas. The American Accounting Association (AAA) model, for instance, outlines a seven-step process for ethical decision-making, including identifying the facts, recognizing ethical issues, and considering alternative actions. This model guides CPAs through a systematic analysis of ethical dilemmas, helping them arrive at well-reasoned and ethically sound decisions.

The seven-step process begins with identifying the relevant facts of the situation, followed by recognizing the ethical issues involved. CPAs then need to determine the affected parties and consider the possible consequences of different actions. The next steps involve identifying the relevant ethical principles and evaluating the available alternatives in light of these principles. Finally, CPAs make a decision and reflect on the outcome, learning from the experience to improve future ethical decision-making (Thorne, 2018).

Applying ethical decision-making models helps CPAs decode on complex professional scenarios, ensuring that their actions are aligned with ethical standards. These models provide a comprehensive framework for addressing ethical challenges, promoting consistency and transparency in decision-making. By systematically analyzing ethical dilemmas, CPAs can make informed decisions that uphold the integrity of the profession and protect the public interest (Mintz & Morris, 2021). 

Impact of Culture on Ethical Perceptions

Cultural values significantly influence the ethical perceptions and behaviors of CPAs. In the Philippines, a collectivist culture emphasizes the importance of relationships, family, and community. These cultural values can impact ethical decision-making, sometimes leading to conflicts between professional responsibilities and personal loyalties. Understanding the cultural context is crucial for developing ethical guidelines that are relevant and effective in the Philippine setting. 

The collectivist orientation in Filipino culture fosters strong interpersonal relationships and a sense of communal responsibility. This cultural trait can influence CPAs to prioritize familial and social obligations over strict adherence to professional ethics. For instance, a CPA might face pressure to manipulate financial statements to benefit a family member's business, creating a conflict between personal loyalty and professional integrity. Recognizing these cultural influences is essential for addressing ethical challenges and reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct.

Moreover, the concept of "hiya" (shame) in Filipino culture can deter individuals from reporting unethical behavior, as they may fear bringing disgrace to their family or community. This cultural sensitivity to shame underscores the need for ethical training programs that address cultural nuances and promote ethical accountability. By fostering a culture of transparency and ethical behavior, CPAs can navigate the complex interplay between cultural values and professional ethics (Hofstede, 2021).

Ethical challenges in financial reporting

Financial reporting is fraught with ethical challenges, including pressure to manipulate figures, misrepresent financial positions, and engage in fraudulent activities. CPAs in the Philippines must navigate these challenges while adhering to ethical standards. The integrity of financial reporting is critical for investor confidence and the overall stability of the financial system. Ethical lapses in financial reporting can have severe consequences, including legal penalties and reputational damage.

One of the primary ethical challenges in financial reporting is the pressure to meet earnings targets and financial projections. CPAs may face demands from management to alter financial statements to present a more favorable financial position, potentially leading to fraudulent reporting. Such actions compromise the integrity of financial information and erode public trust in the accounting profession. CPAs must resist these pressures and uphold ethical principles to ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial reports (Jones, 2021).

Another ethical challenge is the temptation to engage in creative accounting practices, which involve manipulating financial data within the bounds of accounting standards to achieve desired outcomes. While creative accounting may not always constitute outright fraud, it undermines the spirit of transparency and honesty in financial reporting. CPAs must maintain a commitment to ethical conduct and avoid engaging in practices that distort the true financial position of an organization (Mallin, 2016).

Corporate Governance and Accountability

Corporate governance structures play a vital role in promoting ethical behavior among CPAs. Effective governance mechanisms, such as independent audit committees and transparent reporting practices, enhance accountability and reduce the likelihood of unethical conduct. In the Philippines, corporate governance reforms have been implemented to strengthen the oversight of financial reporting and ensure the integrity of financial disclosures.

Independent audit committees are essential for maintaining the objectivity and independence of the audit process. These committees oversee the work of internal and external auditors, ensuring that financial statements are accurate and free from bias. By providing an additional layer of oversight, audit committees help prevent unethical behavior and promote transparency in financial reporting. CPAs play a crucial role in supporting the work of audit committees and ensuring that their findings are based on objective and reliable evidence. 

Transparent reporting practices are also critical for promoting ethical behavior and accountability. Companies are required to disclose accurate and complete financial information to stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and the public. Transparent reporting fosters trust and confidence in the financial system, encouraging ethical conduct among CPAs and other professionals. By adhering to principles of transparency and accountability, CPAs contribute to the overall stability and integrity of the financial market (Mallin, 2016). 

Role of education in ethical development

Ethics education is essential in shaping the moral compass of future CPAs. Incorporating ethics into the accounting curriculum helps students develop a strong ethical foundation and prepares them to handle ethical dilemmas in their professional careers. In the Philippines, accounting programs have integrated ethics courses to emphasize the importance of ethical behavior and professional responsibility.

Ethics education in accounting typically includes courses on ethical theories, professional codes of conduct, and ethical decision-making models. These courses provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex ethical issues in the accounting profession. By engaging with real-life case studies and ethical scenarios, students learn to apply ethical principles to their professional practice, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. 

Moreover, ethics education emphasizes the development of personal virtues such as honesty, fairness, and diligence. By cultivating these virtues, future CPAs are better equipped to make ethical decisions and uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. Ethics education also highlights the importance of continuous professional development, encouraging CPAs to stay informed about emerging ethical issues and evolving professional standards (Mintz & Morris, 2021). 

Whistleblowing and ethical reporting

Whistleblowing is a critical mechanism for uncovering unethical practices within organizations. CPAs have a responsibility to report unethical behavior, but fear of retaliation and cultural factors can hinder whistleblowing. Encouraging a culture of transparency and providing protection for whistleblowers are essential for promoting ethical accountability in the profession.

In the Philippines, cultural factors such as "hiya" (shame) and "pakikisama" (smooth interpersonal relationships) can discourage individuals from reporting unethical behavior. CPAs may fear damaging their relationships or facing social ostracism if they blow the whistle on unethical practices. Addressing these cultural barriers is crucial for fostering an environment where ethical reporting is encouraged and supported.

Legal protections for whistleblowers are also essential for promoting ethical accountability. In the Philippines, the Whistleblower Protection Act aims to protect individuals who report unethical or illegal activities from retaliation. CPAs must be aware of their rights and the protections available to them, ensuring that they can report unethical behavior without fear of reprisal. By promoting a culture of transparency and ethical reporting, the accounting profession can uphold its commitment to integrity and public trust (Miceli & Near, 2015).

Case Study of ethical dilemmas

The Pharmally scandal, which erupted in the Philippines, has brought significant attention to the ethical responsibilities and professional conduct of CPAs involved in auditing processes. This case highlights the critical role of auditors in detecting and preventing financial misconduct and the severe consequences that can arise from ethical lapses in the profession.

Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation, a relatively unknown company, was implicated in a scandal involving the procurement of medical supplies for the Philippine government during the COVID-19 pandemic. The controversy centered on allegations of overpricing, substandard products, and questionable procurement practices, leading to significant public outrage and a Senate investigation. During the investigation, it was revealed that Pharmally had received billions of pesos in government contracts despite having a small capital base and limited operational history. Questions were raised about the due diligence and auditing processes that allowed such transactions to proceed without scrutiny. 

The auditor in question, tasked with reviewing Pharmally's financial statements and ensuring their accuracy and compliance with relevant accounting standards, came under intense scrutiny. The investigation revealed several key issues related to the auditor's conduct. First, there was a significant lack of due diligence. The auditor failed to conduct a thorough review of Pharmally's financial records and procurement practices, allowing significant irregularities to go undetected. This failure undermined the integrity of the financial reporting process and highlighted a critical breach of professional standards.

Additionally, concerns about conflicts of interest emerged. The auditor's relationship with Pharmally raised questions about their independence and objectivity. Such conflicts can severely compromise the auditor's ability to provide an unbiased opinion, ultimately harming public trust in the auditing profession. Furthermore, the auditor's lack of adherence to ethical standards was evident in the inadequate documentation and verification of financial transactions. Proper auditing procedures require meticulous attention to detail and rigorous verification of all financial data, which were evidently lacking in this case.

The Pharmally scandal underscores the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in the accounting profession. For CPAs, integrity, objectivity, and professional competence are non-negotiable principles that must guide all professional activities. This case illustrates the potential consequences when these principles are compromised, including legal repercussions, loss of public trust, and damage to the profession's reputation. The regulatory framework in the Philippines, including oversight by bodies such as the Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy and the Securities and Exchange Commission, plays a crucial role in enforcing these standards and ensuring that CPAs adhere to ethical guidelines. Strengthening these regulatory mechanisms and enhancing transparency can help prevent similar scandals in the future.

Moreover, the Pharmally case highlights the need for continuous ethics education and professional development for CPAs. By regularly updating their knowledge and skills, auditors can stay informed about emerging ethical challenges and evolving standards, better preparing them to navigate complex situations. Emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior in accounting curricula and professional training programs can instill a strong moral foundation in future CPAs, ensuring they uphold the highest standards of conduct throughout their careers (Magsambol, 2021).

Conclusion 

The moral compass of a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is fundamental to maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of the accounting profession. In the Philippines, CPAs face unique ethical challenges shaped by cultural values, regulatory frameworks, and the complex economic environment. Adherence to ethical principles such as integrity, objectivity, and professional competence is crucial in ensuring accurate and transparent financial reporting. The regulatory framework, including the Code of Ethics established by the Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy and the oversight provided by the Securities and Exchange Commission, plays a significant role in enforcing ethical standards and protecting public interest.

Cultural factors such as collectivism and concepts like "hiya" (shame) and "pakikisama" (smooth interpersonal relationships) influence the ethical decision-making of CPAs in the Philippines. While these cultural values promote strong community bonds, they can also create conflicts between personal loyalties and professional responsibilities. Understanding and addressing these cultural influences through targeted ethics education and training is essential for fostering a culture of ethical accountability. By incorporating ethics into the accounting curriculum and emphasizing the development of personal virtues, future CPAs can be better prepared to navigate ethical dilemmas in their professional careers.

The ethical behavior of CPAs has far-reaching implications for the stability and transparency of the financial system. Ethical lapses in financial reporting can lead to significant legal and reputational consequences, undermining public trust in the profession. By upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and continuously striving for professional excellence, CPAs can contribute to the overall health of the financial ecosystem. Promoting a culture of transparency, accountability, and ethical behavior is vital for ensuring the credibility and reliability of financial information in the Philippines.

Ultimately, continuous education and ethical vigilance are essential for CPAs to navigate the complexities of their profession and maintain public trust. Future research should focus on the evolving ethical challenges in the accounting industry and the development of robust ethical training programs.

By fostering a strong ethical foundation, CPAs can contribute to the integrity and reliability of financial reporting and uphold the trust of clients, stakeholders, and the public

References

 

Hofstede, G. (2021). Culture's consequences: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions and organizations across nations. Sage Publications.

 

Jones, M. (2021). Creative accounting, fraud and international accounting scandals. John Wiley & Sons.

 

Mallin, C. (2016). Corporate Governance. Oxford University Press.

 

Miceli, M. P., & Near, J. P. (2015). Blowing the Whistle: The organizational and legal implications for companies and employees. Lexington Books.

 

Magsambol, B. (2021). "Pharmally scandal: Key issues and findings." Rappler. Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com

 

Mintz, S. M., & Morris, R. E. (2021). Ethical obligations and decision-making in accounting: Text and cases. McGraw-Hill Education.

 

Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy. (2016). Code of ethics for CPAs. Professional Regulation Commission.

 

Securities and Exchange Commission. (2020). Rules and regulations on professional conduct of CPAs. Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Sison, A. J. G., & Fontrodona, J. (2022). The common good of the firm in the Aristotelian-Thomistic tradition. Business Ethics Quarterly, 22(2), 211-246.

 

Thorne, L. (2018). The role of virtue in auditors’ ethical decision-making. Research on Accounting Ethics, 4, 291-308.