Rica Mae Marbebe, a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy graduate from the University of Mindanao, has a story marked by resilience, determination and gratitude.

Growing up in Sitio Soriano, Katalunan Grande, Davao City, Marbebe’s beginnings shaped her unwavering resolve to break free from the cycle of poverty and provide a better life for her family.

“My parents work in a motor parts store. My mother is a housewife who takes care of my brother who has special needs. We also have a small sari-sari store. Every Sunday, we harvest vegetables, clean and pick banana leaves to support our family’s income,” she shares.

Despite their efforts in surviving the day-to-day course of life, challenges weighed heavily on the family. In December 2019, her brother experienced a seizure, bringing fear to Marbebe that he might pass away because they were not able to bring him immediately to the hospital.

“I realized how difficult it was for us to help him because we did not have money or transportation,” she recalls.

That very moment strengthened her resolve to pursue her education, knowing it was the key to securing a brighter future.

The turning point came when she received life-changing news that her scholarship from SM Foundation was approved.

“I was given an opportunity to finish my studies. I told my parents this was the beginning to break the cycle of poverty,” Marbebe stated.

For her undergraduate degree, Marbebe chose to study accountancy, a field she soon realized was broader and more challenging than expected. Another hurdle she had trouble facing was transitioning from onsite to online classes because she lacked the necessary devices.

Marbebe dreams of giving her parents comfort and most importantly, medical treatment for her brother struggling with epilepsy.

As an SM Foundation scholar, Rica credits the organization for transforming her life. She also emphasized that Marbebe wants to work for the SM Foundation as a way of “paying back.”

Now a graduate and a Certified Public Accountant, she reminded fellow SM Foundation scholars to be grateful for the opportunity given to them.

“Be grateful because not all students are given this great opportunity. In everything you do in your studies, give your best because it is our way of paying back the SM Foundation.”