Avel Q. Batungbacal, CMC®, is a management consultant whose practice is built on a foundation of entrepreneurial ventures, cross-sector experience, and a commitment to strategic business advisory. As Founder of AQBAT Trade and Marketing, he specializes in brand representation and market facilitation, supporting both international and local brands in establishing and scaling their presence in the Philippine market.
CMC® Certification Story
Motivation for pursuing the CMC® designation
“My advice to aspiring consultants is to listen first before trying to solve the problem. Understanding the client’s real pain points, constraints, and people dynamics is just as important as technical expertise. Be clear in your communication, set realistic expectations, and lead teams with empathy and accountability. Most importantly, focus on helping clients implement solutions, not just presenting ideas because trust is built through action and results.”
Preparation process and most challenging part
“I prepared for the certification process by conducting a structured self-audit of my skills and capabilities. I assessed my strengths, identified development areas, and aligned my experience with the certification’s professional and ethical standards. The most challenging part was taking an objective view of my own gaps, but this discipline strengthened both my readiness for certification and my effectiveness as a consultant.”
Benefits after becoming a CMC®
“Since becoming a CMC®, I have gained greater confidence in how I approach consulting engagements. The designation has helped strengthen my credibility with clients and reassured them of my commitment to ethical practice and global standards. On a personal level, it pushed me to be more disciplined in my thinking and decision-making, and reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and accountability. Overall, becoming a CMC® has positively shaped both how I practice consulting and how I see myself as a professional.”
Credibility and opportunities gained
“The CMC® credential has given me greater confidence in how I present myself and my work as a consultant. It reassures clients that I operate with integrity, professionalism, and a structured approach aligned with global standards. Personally, it has helped me start conversations from a place of trust and credibility, opening opportunities where I am seen not just as a consultant, but as a long-term partner in helping organizations solve their challenges.”
Message to consultants considering CMC®
“If you are considering the CMC® certification and don’t know where to start, this is the first step. The process forces you to pause, assess your skills honestly, and understand what kind of consultant you really are and want to become. Beyond the credential, it helps you clarify your value, strengthen your discipline, and improve how you work with clients in a more ethical, structured, and results-driven way.”
