The winners and grand finalists of the 27th SOASP, along with leaders from P&A Foundation, Inc., ACPACI, and PICPA.
HISTORY has been made as a new champion emerges at the 27th Search for Outstanding Accounting Students of the Philippines (SOASP). The grand finals, held on 20 March 2026 at the Makati Diamond Hotel, marked the culmination of a nationwide program designed to recognise academic excellence, leadership, and the evolving role of accountancy students in the profession.
This year, Vincent Noel Cuaresma of Far Eastern University – Manila rose above a remarkable field to claim the top title, delivering a consistent performance across the day’s rigorous stages. Rounding out the winners’ circle were Razilee De Vera of Kingfisher School of Business and Finance (2nd place), Tyron Jones Acuña of Kingfisher School of Business and Finance (3rd place), Fransh Andrei Abad of Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Manila (4th place), and Leonardo Galang II of Far Eastern University – Manila (5th place). Acuña also earned a special citation as the Highest Scorer in the Qualifying Exam.
Marking its 27th year, SOASP continues a proud tradition of honouring the country’s brightest and most promising future CPAs. This year’s edition was bolder and more inclusive, with representation from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. From a virtual qualifying exam held on 21 February 2026 that saw 615 student‑representatives from 109 schools nationwide, 25 finalists advanced to compete in person at the grand finals.
A legacy of honoring future leaders
A long‑standing collaboration between P&A Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of P&A Grant Thornton, the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), and the Association of Certified Public Accountants in Commerce and Industry (ACPACI), the SOASP has been sustained and expanded for 27 years, championing academic excellence, leadership, and integrity while widening access through regional participation and technology‑enabled delivery.
In his opening remarks, SOASP Partner‑in‑Charge, Vice Chairman, and Deputy Managing Partner Olivier D. Aznar underscored the human qualities that the search champions.
“Skills may evolve, tools may change, but humanity remains irreplaceable. How we treat people, show empathy, and stay composed and grounded under pressure. These are the qualities that truly distinguish professionals and leaders, and that, in many ways, is what SOASP is about,” Aznar said.
Adding the perspective of the professional community, PICPA National President Gerard B. Sanvictores reminded finalists that the competition is a milestone within a larger growth journey: “This is just one chapter in your journey. It will be a continuous journey and learning experience.” Echoing this forward‑looking view, ACPACI National President Marvin Madrigalejo highlighted the promise on display: “I see today not only outstanding accounting students, but future CPAs and leaders of the profession.”
Closing the message of support from the organisers, P&A Grant Thornton Chairman and Managing Partner, and P&A Foundation, Inc. Chairperson Romualdo ‘Boyet’ V. Murcia III commended the finalists’ effort and resilience: “Your journey is a grounding reminder that success is never accidental; it is built through persistence, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Each of you has already proven your potential and serves as an inspiration to your fellow students and the younger generation of aspiring accountants.”
Grit, guidance, and growth
Asked how it felt to be named the 27th SOASP Champion, Vincent Noel Cuaresma (FEU–Manila) shared that the moment was equal parts surprise and validation. He had managed his expectations throughout the competition, but standing onstage, he said he could finally appreciate how far consistent effort had taken him. “Sometimes I felt my effort wasn’t enough, but in hindsight, I’ve come a long way,” he reflected. For Vincent, the win is both a milestone and a motivator: a reminder to keep sharpening his fundamentals, stay grounded under pressure, and carry forward the habits that brought him here as he takes the next steps in his professional journey.
His coach, Jerome Perez, highlighted the culture that shaped that growth: a healthy, collaborative competitiveness within Vincent’s circle. The team routinely pushed one another to reach the top while staying close-knit and supportive: proof that you can compete and help each other at the same time. “That’s what helped him come this far,” the coach shared. “I’ve seen his progress from the very start until this moment.” As the 27th SOASP concludes, the program’s legacy endures: a nationwide, partnership‑driven search that doesn’t just crown a champion, but cultivates grit, camaraderie, and values‑driven leadership—preparing future CPAs to excel and to lift others up as they rise.
