P&Ause with Purpose: Anthony’s Role in Building a Culture of Care

With a heart rooted in service, Anthony shares his commitment to turning empathy into action, one initiative at a time.

Joining P&A Grant Thornton was more than just a career move: it was a continuation of a personal mission. Even before becoming part of the Firm, I had already been actively involved with organisations that championed the same advocacies upheld by P&A Foundation Inc., from education and community development to environmental sustainability and social equity. Starting my journey with the Firm nearly 6 years ago, I felt an immediate alignment between my personal values and the Firm’s commitment to making a difference.

Over the years, I’ve been incredibly blessed and deeply grateful for the trust and support extended to me by the partners and stakeholders of P&A for a Cause. Their belief in me has allowed me to grow not only professionally but also as a servant leader. Being entrusted as one of the heads of the Firm’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm has been both an honor and a responsibility I carry with pride. It’s a role that constantly reminds me that meaningful work goes beyond the office: about creating a lasting impact in the communities we serve.

To me, the name “P&Ause” carries a powerful and timely message. It’s a gentle reminder that even in the fast-paced world of accounting, auditing, and administrative support, we all need to take a moment to pause. In our work, where deadlines and deliverables often take center stage, P&Ause invites the Purple Tribe to reflect, recharge, and realign. It’s about preventing burnout, nurturing well-being, and finding meaning in service. It symbolises the importance of stepping back, breathing, and reconnecting with our purpose—not just as professionals but as people who care about the world around us.

At P&A Grant Thornton, CSR through P&Ause nurtures both the heart and the mind. It promotes personal growth by fostering empathy, emotional well-being, and a deeper sense of purpose. Professionally, it builds leadership, teamwork, and project management skills. By giving back, our people grow not just as professionals but as compassionate, purpose-driven individuals.

While CSR has become a buzzword in many industries, P&Ause stands for something more profound. It’s not just about goodwill; it’s about genuine connection, compassion, and community transformation. What makes P&Ause truly significant is its intentional focus on the overlooked and underserved. We don’t just choose beneficiaries for visibility; we choose them for impact and change.

Being part of P&Ause has been a transformative experience. Personally, it has deepened my empathy and sense of purpose, reminding me that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Professionally, it has strengthened my leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, proving that true leadership is rooted in service.

Working with Little Brave Hearts Philippines Inc. was one of the most emotional experiences I’ve had. What struck me most was seeing a newborn with CHD, his lips turning violet, and hearing the doctors say he might not survive without surgery. His mother, in tears, had no means to help him. That moment, so raw and real, remains vivid in my memory. It reminded me that our work isn’t just about giving; it’s about showing up when it matters most and offering hope when it’s needed the most.

One of the biggest challenges we face in promoting CSR within the firm is encouraging more people to donate or become active members. Often, employees hesitate because they see CSR involvement as a long-term commitment, something that might add to their already busy workload. To overcome this, we continuously remind our colleagues that the true spirit of kindness lies in helping others even during our busiest times. CSR doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; it can be as simple as showing up, sharing time, or contributing in small ways.

Looking ahead, my vision for P&Ause is not just to grow in reach but to deepen its impact to be remembered, not for the name or the people behind it, but for how it changed lives and uplifted communities. We want P&Ause to be a symbol of hope and transformation into an organisation that made people feel seen, supported, and empowered. As officers, we don’t seek recognition for ourselves. What matters most is that the people we help remember how we made them feel and how we stood by them in their time of need. That, to me, is the true legacy of P&Ause and a brighter vision we will continue to work toward.

If you're thinking of joining, go for it. You don’t need a lot of time, just a willing heart. Every small act of kindness matters. Balance comes when you lead with purpose. Start small, stay consistent, and remember: CSR isn’t extra work; it’s a meaningful P&Ause that helps you grow while helping others!