Fourth-year BS Accountancy student Marjorie Mae Dy emerged as the Grand Champion of the 26th Search for Outstanding Accounting Students of the Philippines (SOASP) on March 21, 2025, held at the Makati Diamond Residences, Makati City.

In a remarkable showcase of talent and knowledge, Dy and fellow Carolinian Lawrence Sarigumba emerged as Top 25 finalists in the nationwide search, which saw 455 students from 92 schools across the Philippines participate.

The prestigious event was organized in collaboration with the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), the Association of Certified Public Accountants in Commerce and Industry (ACPACI), and P&A Foundation.

The competition’s rigorous qualifying round tested participants on essential subjects covered in the Licensure Examination for Certified Public Accountants, ultimately narrowing the field to just 25 outstanding individuals. The final round was an exhilarating two-part event, consisting of a quiz bowl and a question-and-answer segment. 

Dy distinguished herself during the quiz bowl, securing a spot among the Top 5 finalists. She competed alongside talented students from Kingfisher School of Business and Finance, Bulacan State University, and the University of the Philippines Diliman, who finished 2nd to 5th. Dy’s compelling responses and deep understanding of accounting principles and issues ultimately led her to be crowned this year’s Grand Champion.

Other fourth-year students from the Department of Accountancy who participated in the qualifying rounds included Dhexenn Aves, Nefalin Demafiles, Aubrey Faith Salomes, and Robyn Vernice Uy, showcasing the department’s commitment to academic excellence in the field.

Marjorie Mae Dy and Lawrence Sarigumba were accompanied by Joemel Dakay, CPA, Assistant Chairman of the Department of Accountancy, who expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments and their representation of the university.

The SOASP not only highlights the exceptional capabilities of future accountants but also underscores the importance of cultivating skills and knowledge that will shape the industry’s future. 

by Joemel Dakay, CPA