27 February 2026
At Benilde’s February 14 Commencement Exercises held at the Philippine International Convention Center, milestones took center stage. Professionals from different fields turned years of experience into degrees through ETEEAP, proving that persistence and opportunity can make dreams real. Among them were the first woman to graduate in Music Production, a seasoned visual merchandiser completing Production Design in his fifties, and overseas professionals who showed that distance is no barrier to success.
Professional singer Marinel Silva became the first woman to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Music Production through ETEEAP. She managed her singing career, business, and studies while keeping her focus on the goal. “Earning a degree in Music was a challenge I once thought would be easy, but along the way I realized it required discipline, sacrifice, faith, and perseverance,” she said. She reflected that completing the program gave her a deeper sense of fulfillment, knowing that her years of practice and performance were finally recognized as part of her academic journey. Actor and filmmaker Xian Lim also pursued the same program, completing his final recital last December at the Black Box, Design+Arts Campus.
In Bahrain, Vicente Paje Jr. worked as a visual merchandiser before deciding to pursue his degree in Production Design. He carried his years of practice into the program and proudly became one of the first graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Production Design. Already in his fifties, he showed that age does not stop anyone from completing a degree. “With persistence, we write our victory,” he declared. He described carrying years of hard work, silent battles, and unwavering hope into his ETEEAP journey. “Now I walk forward with honor and pride, living proof that true success belongs to those who refuse to surrender their dreams.”
Benilde’s ETEEAP assists professionals even if they are applying from outside the country, with applications handled through email and interviews conducted online. This accessibility allows candidates to pursue their degrees while continuing their careers abroad. Mary Chegella Judtrix Gana came from the United States to complete her Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Luxury Management, while Allan Paul Cañafranca, based in Singapore and working as a Senior IT System Consultant, finished his Bachelor of Science in Information Systems.
ETEEAP welcomes professionals at any stage of life, whether they are raising families or sharing the journey across generations. In earlier batches, Marie Domenique Crescini Araullo completed her BS-IS degree while raising two children and managing her role as an Operations Manager. Rico Rosima shared his Performing Arts journey with his daughter Ritamae, turning graduation into a family milestone.
These stories anchor the meaning of success in ETEEAP. Professionals from different industries, countries, and life stages proved that finishing a degree is possible when experience is valued.
Benilde makes this path practical. The program is designed for one-year completion, with flexible attendance and courses that match industry needs. Professionals can continue their careers while earning a degree that recognizes their skills and achievements.
For more information on Benilde’s ETEEAP and other undergraduate programs, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
