A Journey of Purpose, Teaching and Advocacy

Hello and thank you for visiting. I’m Michael Angelo A. Cortez, a Professor of Accounting at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Japan. I teach accounting and business research to both undergraduate and graduate students, helping shape future professionals with a strong sense of ethics, purpose, and global vision. Beyond the classroom, I am an active researcher and author, passionately exploring the intersections of corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and financial performance. My work seeks to answer a question that drives me: Can businesses truly do well by doing good? I occasionally step out of the lecture hall and into the field—studying social entrepreneurship initiatives and sustainable agricultural enterprises that empower communities and protect our environment. These experiences enrich not only my research but also my teaching, grounding theories in real-world impact. At heart, I am a social advocate, championing inclusive education as a pathway to empowerment and poverty alleviation. I believe that education—when made accessible to all—is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change. And on a personal note, I’m just an ordinary foreigner quietly navigating life in Japan—learning, blending in, and embracing the beauty of this culture—while proudly holding on to my Filipino roots. This blog is where I share my thoughts, research, experiences, and advocacies. Whether you’re a student, fellow academic, policy advocate, or simply curious, I hope you find something here that resonates with you—and maybe even inspires you. Let’s learn, connect, and create change—together.