Anthony Tribucio’s career in accounting didn’t start with one big decision—it grew out of a series of small but intentional choices. As a BSBA Financial Management student at the University of San Jose–Recoletos, he was already thinking beyond the classroom. While many of his peers focused only on coursework, Anthony searched for ways to stand out in a competitive industry.
That search led him to the Certified Bookkeeper program under NIAT, a move that became the turning point of his career. Passing the exam gave him both confidence and credibility while still in school. “It wasn’t just about passing an exam,” Anthony said in an interview with Financial Adviser PH. “It was about preparing myself to contribute meaningfully wherever I worked.”
From there, he layered credentials and skills to build a strong professional identity. He earned his Civil Service Professional Eligibility, opening opportunities in government and public service, and became a Licensed Financial Advisor, broadening his perspective on how financial systems impact both individuals and organizations. Together, these qualifications created a foundation that eventually helped him secure his current role as Accounts Payable Specialist at Townsen Memorial Hospital in Texas, USA.
Pivotal Choices That Defined His Path
Anthony points to two pivotal moments that shaped his career. The first was passing the Certified Bookkeeper exam, which gave him a professional identity even before graduation. The second was stepping into his current role at Townsen Memorial Hospital, where he was able to apply both his academic training and certification to the fast-paced, high-stakes world of healthcare finance.
“That role tested everything I had learned,” he explained. “Healthcare demands accuracy, compliance, and efficiency at the highest level. It was a chance to prove that my qualifications weren’t just on paper—they were skills I could apply in real operations.”
From Student to Specialist
Though still early in his career, Anthony’s role has evolved quickly. What began as mastering the basics—bookkeeping, reconciliations, and reporting—has grown into managing high volumes of vendor invoices, resolving discrepancies, and ensuring timely payments.
Today, he uses systems like QuickBooks and Excel to streamline processes. His focus has shifted from just processing numbers to becoming a trusted contributor to organizational efficiency. “Each time I solve a problem or reconcile accounts, I see how my work directly supports the hospital’s operations,” he said.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Like many young professionals, Anthony’s early challenge was adapting to the speed and volume of real-world work. In healthcare finance, deadlines are unforgiving. To keep up, he developed strong time management habits, embraced accounting software, and sought guidance from senior colleagues.
He credits his certification exams for preparing him mentally. “NIAT taught me discipline and focus. That same mindset helped me overcome the pressure at work,” he shared.
Integrity as a Core Value
For Anthony, accounting is not just about numbers—it’s about trust. Integrity, precision, and accountability are the values that guide his career. “Even the smallest details matter,” he emphasized. These values also shape his leadership style: leading by example, staying dependable under pressure, and always supporting teamwork.
Passion and Purpose in Finance
What keeps him passionate is the sense of purpose that comes with financial accuracy. He enjoys the problem-solving side of accounting—balancing reports, identifying discrepancies, and helping organizations run smoothly. His work as a Licensed Financial Advisor also allows him to see the bigger picture, showing how financial decisions affect not just businesses but communities as well.
“The most fulfilling part is knowing that my work contributes to something bigger,” he said. “In healthcare, efficiency in finance can even impact patient care.”
Continuous Growth With NIAT
Anthony continues to invest in his growth. Beyond training and certifications, he sees every challenge at work as an opportunity to sharpen his skills. Becoming a NIAT Certified Bookkeeper was one of his earliest and most impactful steps, one that boosted his confidence and opened doors.
“Employers noticed my NIAT certification immediately,” he recalled. “It gave them assurance that I had the technical competence to perform well. It helped me land opportunities earlier than I expected.”
His advice to aspiring professionals is straightforward: “Go for it. NIAT certification doesn’t just validate your skills—it gives you credibility in the job market. It’s an investment in yourself.”
Looking Ahead
Anthony’s story proves that building a career isn’t always about one defining leap, but about taking consistent, purposeful steps. From passing his first certification exam to working in a U.S.-based hospital, his path shows how preparation and persistence can create opportunities across industries and borders.
“Keep learning, keep growing, and use your skills to make a difference,” he said. “That’s the mindset that has carried me this far—and the one I’ll continue to live by.”
