Leaders Uncovered – Lourd Gil G. Domingo, CAT
Lourd Gil G. Domingo, CAT®, is a versatile accounting professional whose career reflects academic excellence, resilience, and dedication to continuous learning. A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Saint Mary’s University, he is currently pursuing his Juris Doctor at the University of La Salette, Inc. in Santiago City, Isabela—demonstrating his commitment to broadening his expertise beyond finance and into law. Recognized early for his scholastic achievements, Lourd graduated Salutatorian in high school and earned Honorable Mention distinctions in elementary.
His professional journey highlights both private sector and government service. He currently serves as Accountant at Isabela Zen Hotel & Restaurant Corp., bringing his expertise to the hospitality industry. He has also worked as a Tax Associate at Reyes Tacandong & Co., an Associate at CLTA & Co., and as an Administrative Aide at the Commission on Elections, among others.
His leadership was evident when he became a Project Team Leader at the Philippine Red Cross and a government intern at the Public Employment Service Office. Throughout these roles, he has consistently demonstrated his adaptability, analytical skills, and strong sense of public service.
What Led Him to Pursue Certification through the National Institute of Accounting Technicians?
When asked what motivated him to pursue NIAT certification, Lourd explained:
“The benefits of having a certification from the National Institute of Accounting Technicians led me to pursue the exam. Having it recognized internationally made me more interested in the certification offered by the National Institute of Accounting Technicians. With all the benefits it has to offer, it helped me land into jobs with higher salary because of the certification I have from NIAT.”
How Did Earning His Certification from NIAT Impact His Career Opportunities or Confidence in the Field?
Reflecting on its impact, he shared:
“In a world where change is constant, we need to study further, earn additional titles, degrees, or certifications. Earning my certification from NIAT helped me a lot in my chosen career. In an industry where the CPA title is an advantage, even if you don’t have the said title yet, having a certification from NIAT will still be recognized as an edge among other applicants.”
“In my previous workplace, especially in an accounting firm here in the province and in the city, my certification from NIAT made me stand out from the others. Statistics will show that CPAs in the Philippines are lacking compared to the number of businesses and industries that need them, however, my certification from NIAT brought me to different industries and to where I am today.”
What Advice Would He Give to Aspiring Accounting Professionals Considering NIAT Certification?
To aspiring accountants, Lourd offers this advice:
“To the aspiring accounting professionals who are considering NIAT certification, do not hesitate to take the risk. When you take the risk, expect something in return, whether it is a negative or positive result, I am very sure that you will learn from it. Just continue to dream higher and bigger. I would advise you to take the exam. Why? I am sure that it will help you to land jobs which will shape your accounting skills. It will open a lot of opportunities, and it will take you to places.”