To mark International Internal Audit Awareness Month, the internal audit group of PLDT and Smart, in partnership with JG Summit Holdings, hosted a high-level forum titled “Thriving in an Era of Disruption.”
The event gathered executives from telco, fintech, agriculture, and transport under the MVP and Gokongwei Groups to explore how internal audit can support transformation amid constant volatility.
What they’re saying
“As leaders, we must champion internal audit — not as fault-finders, but as strategic partners,” said Butch Jimenez, PLDT chief operating officer.
“Internal Audit is not a monster with a whip, but a mentor that keeps us on the straight and narrow path of our corporate life, guiding the company to success.”
Maya Bank president Gelo Madrid agreed, saying:“Beyond improving operations, internal audit is a critical partner in leading organizations to the right path.”
Metro Pacific Agro Ventures CEO Jovy Hernandez added:
“Whether in telco, banking or agriculture, we all face disruption. The answer is clear purpose that transcends profit.”
“Internal Audit must understand the core of the business to provide relevant, forward-looking guidance.”
Who audits AI?
The panel discussion, moderated by Roby Alampay, head of public engagement at PLDT and Smart, tackled both the potential and ethical dilemmas of AI.
GoTyme and Cebu Air independent director Brian Cu warned: “AI is the biggest disruptor in our generation. But the question is: Who audits AI? How much oversight is needed? This is a once-in-a-generation challenge, and Internal Audit must shape how AI is understood, governed and integrated into our organizations.”
Cybersecurity and national policy
Jimenez emphasized PLDT’s commitment to cybersecurity, noting major investments in global partnerships and AI-driven defense: “We recognize the critical importance of protecting our customers from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. As threat actors evolve, so must we.”
“Beyond securing our own network, we’re also committed to sharing our knowledge and expertise with other organizations.”
Jimenez also highlighted PLDT’s role on the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council, where it collaborates with government to enhance the country’s cybersecurity framework:
“That’s how serious we are about protecting not just our business, but the entire digital ecosystem.”
Why it matters
Internal audit has historically been viewed as reactive and compliance-driven. But the event made the case that in today’s digital-first world, it must embed itself into core strategy, guiding companies through disruption with insight and foresight.
“Build your brand. If the market trusts and believes in you, it will be much harder for a disruptor to just wipe you out. Your brand becomes your shield,” Jimenez said.
The bottom line
As organizations grapple with seismic changes, executives across industries agree: strong internal audit functions, empowered leadership, and clarity of purpose are critical to building resilience and trust in a disruptive world. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
