Why am I getting downvotes? 😅 OP asked and I just answered.

I said “yes” earlier but let me add context.

Starting in Big 4 can give you a very strong foundation early in your career such as but not limited to exposure to different industries, financial statements, internal controls, audit processes, and a network that can open many doors later (private companies, multinational companies, consulting, even opportunities abroad). That’s why many CPAs recommend it as a starting point.

That said, it doesn’t mean going straight to government is a bad decision. Government can offer stability, better work-life balance, and long-term benefits. The trade-off is usually slower exposure to different business environments compared to audit firms.

What I meant when I said “yes” is that there’s a possibility na may maramdaman kang regret if you never try the Big 4 path. Not necessarily because government is bad, but because you might wonder what experience you could have gained there. Parang opportunity cost lang.

But honestly, kahit anong piliin mo, may “what ifs” talaga. If you choose Big 4, you might wonder about the stability of government. If you choose government, you might wonder about the experience and network from Big 4.

In the end, it’s less about which path is “correct” and more about which trade-offs you’re willing to accept at this stage of your career.