24 July 2026
On July 20, 2026, Benilde School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bayan Family of Foundations (BFF) to create more opportunities for Deaf students, alumni, faculty, and associates through entrepreneurship training, enterprise immersion, research, and collaborative learning.
The agreement covers entrepreneurship and skills development workshops, enterprise immersion, knowledge exchange, joint research, community initiatives, and opportunities to connect with BFF’s network of partners and collaborators. Together, these initiatives aim to support inclusive development while giving participants more opportunities to learn, collaborate, and apply their skills beyond the classroom.
The partnership also builds on work that SDEAS has been doing for years to expand Deaf education through academic programs, partnerships, research, and community engagement.
One area of the agreement focuses on learning and capacity building. Benilde has worked with the Philippine Normal University to help prepare more educators fluent in Filipino Sign Language. The College also partnered with the Department of Education through the Center for Education Access and Development to train public school teachers in Deaf-centered bilingual education, helping make inclusive learning more accessible in schools across the country.
The agreement also encourages knowledge exchange and collaborative learning. SDEAS has supported these efforts through international partnerships, including its collaboration with National University Corporation Tsukuba University of Technology in Japan, where students and faculty have taken part in exchange activities that deepen their understanding of Deaf education and culture.
Students also benefit from programs that connect academic learning with career preparation. Benilde’s Bachelor in Applied Deaf Studies program offers tracks in Entrepreneurship, Business Outsourcing Services Management, and Visual Media Arts. The program has also received recognition from the ASEAN University Network for its commitment to quality and accessible education.
Beyond academics, the agreement encourages community initiatives that support inclusive and sustainable development. Benilde continues this work through the Giselle Montero Legacy Fund, which provides assistance to students, faculty, alumni, and partner communities while continuing the late educator’s advocacy for Deaf education and resilience.
Vice Chancellor for Academics Angelo Marco Lacson and SDEAS Dean Dr. Marian Patricia Bea Francisco signed the agreement on behalf of Benilde. Representing BFF were President and Chief Executive Officer Prof. Carlo Sagun and Bayan Academy Executive Director Vivienne Leigh De Guzman.
For more information on Benilde’s undergraduate programs, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or email admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit www.benilde.edu.ph.
