The success of the May 2025 CPA Licensure Examination top five, Rica Marbebe, is an achievement reached after a steep and difficult climb.
In 2019, a family emergency showed her the full weight of their financial burden. Her younger sibling collapsed. With no money and no way to get to a hospital, Rica could only watch as her family scrambled for help. That moment of helplessness became a turning point.
Determined to change her family’s situation, she set her eyes on education. She applied for and was accepted into the SM Foundation college scholarship program, which she describes as the “start of breaking the cycle of poverty” in their family.
The SM scholarship covered Rica’s tuition, books, and allowances, lifting a huge weight off her family’s shoulders. With financial worries eased, she was able to focus fully on her studies, push her limits, and face challenges with resilience.
For Rica, the scholarship meant more than just financial support or gadgets. It opened doors to mentorship, networking events, and a strong community of fellow SM scholars and alumni. These opportunities helped shape her confidence and sharpen her professional mindset.
“For me, a fulfilling college life means having the freedom to chase my passion and grow into the person I’m meant to be, not just in academics, but in every part of my life. The SM Foundation scholarship made that possible. It lifted the financial burden and opened doors I never thought I could walk through,” she said.
“The scholarship gave me peace of mind and a sense of security, which made a big difference in my mental well-being. Knowing I had that support kept me motivated to pursue my academic goals. It also gave me the freedom to grow beyond the classroom, to join organizations, volunteer, and explore other experiences that helped shape who I am today,” she said.
Marbebe finished accountancy with summa cum laude honors from the University of Mindanao-Davao City campus.
Beyond the academic accolades, Rica now aspires to pay it forward.
“When I reach a point where I can help others, I will share my blessings and inspire them. This plan reflects the core values of SM Foundation and its commitment to serving the community. They have changed the story of one family, creating ripple effects that contribute to alleviating poverty in our country through education,” she said.
