Christine Ricote Sosing never imagined that her future would be defined by balance sheets and ledgers. “I wasn’t really a fan of accounting,” she admits. But fate—and faith—brought her there. Graduating with a double major in Accountancy and Accounting Technology, she discovered that sometimes destiny has a way of shaping careers. “I know God’s plans are better than mine,” she reflects. “So I learned to love and enjoy every bit of debits and credits of my life.”
With that newfound passion, Christine took bold steps. She passed CAT Level 1 and Level 2 exams and is now preparing for Level 3, determined to keep building her credentials. Today, she works as a Financial Analyst at Land Bank of the Philippines, one of the country’s most respected government banks.
Resilience Born from Adversity
Christine’s story is not just about professional growth—it’s also about resilience. She and her family are survivors of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda), one of the strongest storms to ever hit the Philippines. “Our experience made me realize that life is too short yet full of wonderful surprises,” she says. That perspective became her greatest asset at work. Whenever frustrations arise, she reminds herself of why she survived: “Maybe because I still have a purpose.”
Her supervisors quickly noticed that attitude. Optimism and perseverance became her trademarks, setting her apart in a field where pressure and deadlines often dominate.
Growing in the Accounting Profession
Christine’s career began in the private sector, handling SAP accounts in Accounts Receivable. After two years, she moved into government work, where she spent another two years in an accounting office. For the past six years, she has been with Land Bank as a Financial Analyst.
“Kahit saan talaga sa accounting ako tinadhana,” she says with a smile. No matter where she went, her path always led back to accounting. Along the way, she has balanced her career with her long-term dream: becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Even as she works full-time, she dedicates evenings and weekends to review classes. “There’s still a part of me longing for that license,” she explains. “For my family and for the future family I’m planning to build.”
Lessons and Values
Accounting has shaped Christine’s professional values since her first day in college. She learned discipline, problem-solving, and perseverance at Saint Paul School of Professional Studies, where she studied as a scholar. Maintaining good grades was not just about academics—it was also a financial necessity, since her family struggled at the time.
“Accounting taught me that every problem has a solution, and giving up is not an option,” she says. These lessons became the foundation of her leadership style and her career growth.
Passion and Purpose
Christine treats accounting not just as a science, but also as an art. “From private to government office, you can barely differentiate the accounting processes. There is always more to learn,” she shares.
When the workload gets tough, she finds motivation in the people around her—family, friends, and colleagues who believe in her capabilities. “This too shall pass,” she reminds herself during stressful times.
She also gives back by mentoring friends and colleagues. She helps one friend manage the books of a small business, free of charge, guiding her through accounting basics and tax compliance. For Christine, knowledge is meant to be shared.
The Power of Certification
Christine’s certification journey began with NIAT. Becoming a Certified Bookkeeper (CB) and a Registered Cost Accountant (RCA) gave her the professional edge she needed. “Through this certification, a lot of opportunities opened up,” she says. Whether in teaching, banking, or private institutions, accounting professionals are always needed.
Her advice to aspiring professionals is clear: “You can never be ‘zero’ in this profession. There is a wide range of opportunities, locally and internationally. Through certification, you gain an edge. Grab the chance, and a whole story is waiting for you.”
Christine regularly renews her NIAT membership and attends seminars and webinars, grateful for the organization’s support. “NIAT extends an extra mile—not just giving exams but encouraging members to be active,” she explains. These learning opportunities keep her skills sharp and her motivation strong.
A Career with Faith and Determination
From surviving one of the world’s most devastating typhoons to building a steady career in finance, Christine Ricote Sosing’s journey shows the power of resilience, faith, and determination. She may not have chosen accounting at first, but in the end, accounting chose her.
Her story is proof that with the right mindset, perseverance, and certification, even the most unexpected paths can lead to success.
