Van-Mhel Soriano did not enter the accounting profession simply to work with numbers. From the beginning, the motivation ran deeper—an interest in how businesses operate, how decisions are made, and how financial discipline creates trust.
“My journey began with a deep interest in having a business and understanding how the financials of businesses run,” he says.
After completing an Accountancy degree, Soriano made a deliberate choice to strengthen his technical foundation by earning professional certifications, including becoming a Certified Accounting Technician through the National Institute of Accounting Technicians (NIAT) in 2022. That decision would shape the trajectory of a career spanning education, private organizations, and eventually public service.
“This certification provided a strong foundation in bookkeeping, taxation, and financial systems,” he explains. “It helped me a lot in my work in academe, private, and government industries.”
Teaching as a proving ground
Early in his career, Soriano entered the classroom as an accounting instructor. Teaching, however, came with its own challenges—particularly when it came to inspiring students to engage with a subject many found intimidating.
“One of the challenges for me was helping students love accounting subjects and be passionate about studying accounting,” he recalls.
Instead of relying on rigid instruction, he chose a more personal approach. He spent time speaking with students after class, understanding how they learned best, and adapting his teaching style to meet them where they were.
“I overcame this by talking to my students after class, befriending them, and knowing the teaching styles they want so they can cope easily with the lessons,” he says.
That investment paid off in a way no formal metric could measure. One of the most defining moments in his career came not from his own achievements, but from watching others succeed.
“When my former students passed the CPA Board Exam, that was very fulfilling for me,” he says. “I felt that I was part of the success of a person achieving their dreams.”
From instruction to execution
Over time, Soriano’s role evolved beyond teaching. He moved into senior bookkeeping and compliance roles, where the stakes were higher and the margin for error slimmer. As a Senior Bookkeeper in a public school, he found his technical skills and leadership abilities tested in real operational environments.
Later, handling corporate tax compliance and audit work in senior roles further sharpened his judgment and confidence. These experiences ultimately led him to his current role as a Revenue Officer at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)—a position where accuracy, integrity, and accountability are non-negotiable.
“Today, my role combines technical expertise with leadership,” he explains. “I support compliance while also contributing to strategic decision-making.”
Integrity as a professional standard
Throughout these transitions, one principle remained constant: integrity.
“Having integrity, being accountable to work, and being keen on details—these are the values I acquired in my accounting journey,” Soriano says.
Those values now define his leadership style. He believes transparency and collaboration matter just as much as technical skill, especially in environments where public trust is involved.
“I believe in being reliable in my work while also mentoring others to grow,” he adds.
For Soriano, accounting is not simply a function within an organization—it is the backbone that supports sustainable growth.
“What keeps me passionate is knowing that accounting is the backbone of a company,” he says. “Every financial report contributes to organizational growth.”
Why certification mattered
Soriano’s decision to pursue NIAT certification was initially driven by practicality. Early in his career, he aspired to work abroad and recognized the need for internationally recognized credentials. Later, as an instructor, certification became a responsibility—not just for personal development, but to set an example for students.
“Earning my certification boosted my confidence by validating my technical skills and providing global recognition,” he says. “It also gave employers assurance that I had the right foundation.”
Beyond credibility, certification opened doors—impacting hiring opportunities, professional standing, and even salary discussions.
“It gives me an advantage compared to other applicants,” he notes. “It also has an impact on salary negotiations.”
A career built on contribution
Today, Soriano continues to grow—pursuing MBA studies, earning additional credentials like Certified Risk Manager, and staying current with tax laws, accounting standards, and financial technologies.
Yet when asked what he finds most fulfilling, his answer remains grounded.
“The most fulfilling part is seeing the improvement in a company’s accounting workflow and system,” he says. “Knowing that you contributed to the growth of an organization—that is rewarding.”
From mentoring students to serving the public, Soriano’s career reflects a belief that accounting is not about perfection, but responsibility.
“Accounting is not just about numbers,” he says. “It’s about building trust, integrity, and supporting decisions that affect people’s lives.”
