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PERSPECTIVE AUGUST 2026
August closed AY 2025–2026 under weeks of heavy habagat rains, but the downpour did little to dampen a month of milestones at Benilde. The College celebrated the BDS and Benilde SHS Class of 2026, earned its fourth School of the Year title at the Philippine Student Quill Awards, and saw a Benilde-incubated startup named a Filipinnovation Awards finalist. New partnerships, creative achievements, and community efforts also marked the month as Benilde closed the academic year and looked ahead to a colorful new beginning.
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Benilde held a series of activities for Global ASEAN Connect 2026, giving students and members of the Benildean Community different ways to learn about Southeast Asia through leadership, research, culture, sports, and the arts. The activities took place from late July through August as the Philippines served as ASEAN Chair in 2026.
Strategic Directions for 2025-2028 Set the Course for Benilde
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde unveiled its Strategic Plan for Academic Years 2025 to 2028 during an event on July 16, 2026, giving the College community a clear view of its priorities for the coming years.
The plan sets five strategic directions that will guide the College’s work in the coming years. Each direction focuses on a specific area of institutional growth while supporting Benilde’s mission and long-term goals.
Enrollment Growth and Inclusion focuses on reaching more learners and making education more accessible across Benilde’s three campuses. The plan calls for diverse enrollment, flexible education options, new alternative pathways, and more scholarship opportunities. These efforts include streamlined marketing for Manila, BSHS, and Antipolo, becoming a CHED microcredentials provider by AY 2026 to 2027, adding 550 scholarship slots and three new programs, and developing inclusive programs for Deaf and underserved learners.
Enhanced Reputation and Branding aims to position Benilde as a higher education institution of choice while supporting student success and deepening the Lasallian identity. The College plans to work toward this through AUN-QA and PAASCU accreditation, participation in international rankings, continued growth in research publications, and stronger licensure examination performance. The direction also includes increasing student mission engagement and building a workforce that supports the College’s long-term academic goals.
Innovation will shape Future-ready and Transformative Innovation, which covers digital transformation, smarter workplace processes, curriculum development, and the new campus. The plan includes automating five student processes and five workplace processes, bringing smart technology to front-facing offices, and developing the School of the Future Framework. Selected programs will also redesign 80 percent of their curricula using Universal Design for Learning methods. The new campus is expected to become operational by AY 2027 to 2028.
Global Engagement and Partnerships will expand Benilde’s connections with higher education institutions, industry, local government units, and its alumni community. The College plans to develop new strategic partnerships, add international exchange partners, support inbound and outbound mobility, and increase alumni participation through its platform and ambassador program. These efforts will also include regular partnership-building events, summits, and meetings.
Long-term institutional capacity is the focus of Financial Growth and Sustainability. The direction covers new revenue streams, fundraising, cost efficiency, capital investment, and human capital. The plan calls for three non-traditional revenue streams, continued fundraising for facilities, research, scholarships, and community initiatives, and steps to improve operational efficiency. It also includes reviewing the College’s organizational structure and compensation to support clearer roles and competitive pay.
The event also introduced the Strategic Direction Owners who will lead the work under each area. Chancellor Benhur Ong, Vice Chancellor for Academics Angelo Lacson, Vice President for Administration and Innovation Butch Tecson, Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life Nicky Templo-Perez, and Vice President for Finance Mon Gutierrez declared their commitment to carrying the strategic directions forward.
Administrators who play key roles in carrying out the plan also attended the event and signed the Pledge Wall as a commitment to support its implementation.
The program included the Called to Lead segment, followed by the Pledge Wall Signing Ceremony. The event ended with the presentation of next steps and a group photo.
SHRIM Partners Recognition Night Honors Three Decades of Collaboration
Dr. Benigno Glenn R. Ricaforte Appointed OIC Dean of SHRIM
The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academics and the People and Organization Development Office have announced the appointment of Dr. Benigno Glenn R. Ricaforte as Officer-in-Charge Dean of the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management (SHRIM), effective the First Term of Academic Year 2026-2027.
A full professor at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, Dr. Ricaforte brings more than two decades of academic experience and 17 years of industry practice in hospitality, airline catering, food microbiology, and management. A Registered Microbiologist and Certified Guest Service Professional, he also serves as the Philippine Country Director and Representative to the Asia Pacific Council on Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Education (APacCHRIE), and is recognised for his contributions as a researcher, textbook author, and academic leader.
The College also expressed its gratitude to Dean Dr. Marie Castro for her years of dedicated service to SHRIM. Under her leadership, the School expanded its international partnerships, strengthened its academic offerings, advanced research and community engagement initiatives, achieved local and international accreditations, and enhanced its learning facilities, further elevating SHRIM’s standing in hospitality and tourism education.
Ms. Catherine Samaniego Named OIC Dean of Benilde School of Diplomacy and Governance
The College has appointed Ms. Catherine D. Samaniego as Officer-in-Charge Dean of the School of Diplomacy and Governance (SDG), effective the 1st Term of Academic Year 2026-2027. The appointment forms part of the School’s leadership transition and succession plan, with Ms. Samaniego serving as OIC Dean during the 1st and 3rd Terms, while Dr. Gary Ador-Dionisio resumes his role as Dean in the 2nd Term.
A member of the Benildean Community since 2013, Ms. Samaniego currently serves as Chairperson of the Diplomacy and International Affairs Programme. She has led initiatives in academic administration, curriculum development, faculty mentoring, student formation, and internationalisation. Her academic and professional background spans international relations, diplomacy, trade promotion, research, and security studies.
The College likewise expressed its gratitude to Dr. Gary Ador-Dionisio for his years of leadership and service to SDG. Since joining Benilde in 2003, he has played a key role in developing the School’s academic programmes, advancing accreditation efforts, expanding international partnerships, and contributing to public discourse on governance and foreign relations.
Six Benilde Industrial Design alumni will bring their work to Bali this August as part of Newfolk Collective’s participation in Jia CURATED 2026, an international exhibition of craft and design set for August 13 to 17 at Pengembak Beach in Sanur, Indonesia.
By Seymour Sanchez
A graduate of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde film program recently took home first place in the Narrative Category of the 38th Cultural Center of the Philippines Gawad Alternatibo with the theme “Pag-aninag” (Reflecting the Light).
By Seymour Sanchez
Benilde Film educator and advocacy filmmaker Seymour Sanchez recently facilitated a Science Communication Workshop aimed at training the next generation of storytellers to bridge the gap between complex research and public understanding.
On August 12, 2026, the Benilde Marketing Center held its Graduate in Focus session online via Zoom, featuring the Master in Global Governance and Management. Hosted by Rebekah Hashmi, the session introduced the newest graduate program to professionals looking for ways to work across business, government, diplomacy, and development.
Incoming Benildeans Begin Their Journey Through INTERAKTIV 1.0
Benilde warmly welcomed its incoming Frosh and transferees with the annual orientation spearheaded by the Student Trainers (STRAINS).
The two-day orientation introduced the Frosh to everything they need to know to jumpstart their learning journey like no other in Benilde. INTERAKTIV 1.0 2026 was organized by the Center for Student Life (CSL), Student Involvement Unit (SIU), and Benilde Culture and Arts Unit (BCAU).
Benilde Bags Quill Awards and Named 2026 School of the Year for Fourth Time
The College earned its fourth School of the Year title at the 12th Philippine Student Quill Awards, adding another milestone to its track record in student communication excellence.
The recognition comes after Benilde students secured 53 awards across various categories, showcasing creativity, innovation, and outstanding communication work. The achievement reflects the continuing success of Benilde’s student communicators in producing campaigns and projects that stand out on the national stage.
Animo Benilde!
Cheers to the BDS and Benilde SHS Class of 2026!
Moments like no other at the 5th Completion Rites of the Benilde Deaf School and the 4th Benilde Senior High School Commencement Exercises AY 2025–2026 held at The PICC Forum last 8 August 2026.
To our completers and graduates, congratulations! We wish you the best of luck as you embark on your next chapter and adventure.
Benildean Community Raises Funds for 50 Relief Food Packs, Donation Drive Continues
As of 19 August 2026, the Benilde community has raised Php 25,950.25 through GCash donations in support of relief efforts for Benildeans and partner communities affected by Typhoon Maymay and the Habagat-caused rains.
The amount collected is enough to provide 50 food packs to families and individuals in need. The fundraising campaign remains ongoing as organisers work towards their goal of securing 100 more food packs for affected communities.
Donations continue to play a vital role in expanding the relief effort. Every Php 510.00 raised helps fund one additional food pack for a family affected by the recent weather disturbances.
Supporters who wish to contribute may do so by scanning the campaign QR code and are encouraged to send their proof of donation to social.action@benilde.edu.ph or reply to the campaign email.
The Community is encouraged to continue supporting the initiative as relief efforts move forward, helping extend assistance to more families in need.
AIMHI, an AI-powered construction management app under the Benilde Hub of Innovation (HiFi) Trailblazer Startup Program, has earned a spot as a finalist in the 2026 Presidential Filipinnovation Awards.
CBEL Reports July 2026 Environmental Footprint
The Center for Built Environment and Logistics (CBEL) has released its Environmental Footprint Report for July 2026, highlighting the impact of Benilde’s electric vehicle fleet under Project Carbon Neutral.
- 4,897 km traveled — equivalent to ₱78,842 worth of diesel not burned
- 45,282 passengers utilized EV services in one month
- 3 tCO2e emissions avoided, equal to saving 137 trees
- 2,856 kWh consumed for charging, valued at ₱45,696
These efforts directly support SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
CBEL emphasized that “every journey contributes to a positive change” as Benilde continues to push for cleaner mobility and climate action.
For inquiries, visit CBEL at Greenway Square, Taft Campus, call local extension 1196, or email environmentalconcerns@benilde.edu.ph.
Run Like No Other: Maverick Run 2026
Get ready to run, have fun, and take home exciting race‑day goodies at the Maverick Run 2026! More than just a finish line, this event brings together the Benildean community for a day of energy, camaraderie, and celebration.
Choose your distance:
1.5K with Pets — Race Singlet + Pet Bandana 🐾
5K, 10K & 16K — Race Singlet + Finisher Medal + Finisher Shirt 🏅
📅 November 28, 2026 📍 ASEANA City
Whether you’re running with your fur babies, chasing a new personal best, or simply joining for the experience, there’s a race for you. Gather your friends, pick your distance, and get ready to Run Like No Other!
Benilde employees may also opt for the salary deduction payment option, with registration fees divided into three tranches.
🔗 Register now: bit.ly/MaverickRun2026Associates (Exclusive to Benilde employees and their registered participants. Public registration will open separately.)
Secure your spot early, invite your family and friends, and see you at the starting line!
Benilde Crowned Overall Champion at 16th Inter-La Salle Employees’ Sportsfest
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde proudly emerged as the Overall Champion in the recently concluded 16th Inter-La Salle Employees’ Sportsfest.
This victory is more than a trophy — it stands as a testament to the relentless drive, unity, and fierce Animo spirit of the Benildean community. Every game, every cheer, and every act of camaraderie paved the way to this hard-earned triumph.
PODO extends its deepest gratitude to the athletes, internal partners, committee members, associate and student volunteers, and passionate supporters who made this achievement possible.
Relive the highlights of this historic win here: https://bit.ly/iles2026
Animo Benilde!
Never Miss a Game Day with Benilde Blazers NCAA Season 102
The Benilde Blazers Men’s Basketball Team is set to take on NCAA Season 102. Check out the upcoming game schedules, mark your calendars, and keep the winning momentum alive throughout the season.
Never miss a Game Day and show your Animo spirit for the Blazers.
Admissions and Marketing Updates
The Benilde Marketing Center will host an Online Sneak Peek for incoming Grade 11 students on September 26, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM via Zoom. The event will introduce Senior High School tracks and provide guidance on admissions and scholarships.
Tracks featured in the program include:
- Science and Technology Cluster: Foundations in Architectural Thinking | Advanced General Science
- Design and Arts Cluster: Creative Media Production | Technical Theater and Performance Arts
- Philosophy and Humanities Cluster: Advanced General Academics | Diplomacy and Governance
- Business and Entrepreneurship Cluster: Management and Enterprise | Culinary Entrepreneurship
Registration is available through https://bit.ly/onlinesneakpeek2026.
This initiative forms part of the College’s continuing efforts to guide prospective Senior High School students in exploring academic pathways and scholarship opportunities.
The College will hold Benilde Preview: School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management (SHRIM) on October 3, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM via Zoom. The event will present SHRIM as the Philippines’ premier hotel school, accredited with Level IV PAASCU and recognized as a Center of Excellence in Hotel and Restaurant Management.
Featured programs include:
- Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts Management (BS-CAM)
- Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Luxury Management (BS-HLM)
- Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management (BS-IHM)
- Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BS-TM)
Registration is available through https://tinyurl.com/benildepreview.
The Admissions Page now features a refreshed design that enhances the experience for potential applicants. Information is presented more logically, with application details organized into tabbed sections that guide users step by step through the admissions process. This streamlined layout makes it easier to understand requirements and navigate the journey in one place.
Admissions for the First Term of AY 2027-2028 and the Second Term of AY 2026-2027 officially opened on September 15, 2026, giving future Benildeans a clearer and more convenient path to begin their application.
In Case You Missed It
- Office of the Chancellor – Hotel Benilde
- The Benildean & Lasallian Getaway: Exclusive Community Room Deals. Whether you’re traveling for institutional business or visiting campus, enjoy exclusive room rates and complimentary Wi-Fi, gym and pool access, and parking (subject to availability).
- Office of the Vice President for Finance
- As we approach the end of the College’s Fiscal Year, everyone is reminded that the current year’s budget will only cover expenses incurred, goods delivered, and services rendered only until August 31, 2026. This is in accordance with the Philippine Financial Reporting Standards and Philippine Auditing Standards of accrual. Any requests not delivered or completed by August 31, 2026 will be charged against the incoming fiscal year’s budget. All end-users are encouraged to coordinate with the Center for Procurement to check the status of their MRFs. Additionally, all supporting documents must be submitted to Finance Office on or before September 11, 2026. Submission beyond this date will be charged to AY2026-2027 budget.
- We wish to inform the Benildean Community of the recently approved revised policies on the following: • In Campus Meetings and Activity Meal Allowances; • College-Organized Off-Campus Activity Rates; • Official Local and International Travel Per Diem Rates. The revisions are effective September 1.
- Office of the Institutional Effectiveness and Research
- We value everyone’s feedback. Help us improve our campus cafeteria and store by filling out this google form.
- Please share your feedback by filling out the Green Mobilty Shuttle Service Evaluation.
- SHRIM – Chef’s Station
- We are thankful for this amazing term and the Chef’s Station in AKIC. We will be back to serve the community in the next term.
- SHRIM – Vatel Restaurant
- We are grateful for this astounding term. Vatel Restaurant at the Atrium Campus will be back to give the community another dining experience next term.
- Office of the Registrar
- Applications for Leave of Absence (LOA) for First Term AY2026-2027 is now open. The deadline for submitting applications is SEPTEMBER 08, 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
- People and Organization Development Office
- The OVCA, in partnership with the PODO, is pleased to open the search for the next Director of the Center for Admissions, Scholarships and Grants. We invite qualified Benildean Associates to submit their applications and encourage members of the Benildean Community to nominate colleagues who demonstrate the leadership, expertise, and commitment needed for the role.
- OVCA and PODO announces the appointment of Prof. Benigno Glenn R. Ricaforte, PhD as Officer-In-Charge (OIC) Dean for the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management (SHRIM) effective 1st Term, AY 2026-2027.
- The College announces the appointment of Catherine D. Samaniego as Officer- in-Charge (OIC) Dean for the School of Diplomacy and Governance (SDG) effective 1st term, AY 2026-2027. As part of the School’s leadership transition and succession plan, Ms. Samaniego will serve as OIC Dean during the 1st and 3rd Terms of AY 2026–2027, while Dr. Gary Ador-Dionisio will resume his role as Dean during the 2nd Term.
- Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academics
- The Appointments of Academic School Deans, Associate Deans, and Chairpersons for the First Term of Academic Year 2026-2027 was announced to the community.
- Center for Institutional Helpdesk
- It’s official: the redesigned Helpdesk website is now live! Created by Benildeans, for Benildeans, the new site is designed to make getting help faster, simpler, and more convenient.. Thanks to our partners for their collaboration as we continue to improve our content and services. Whether you’re a student, faculty, or staff member, the redesigned Helpdesk website was built for you – a space created by Benildeans, for Benildeans.
- Center for Student Life
- The Benilde Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is pleased to formally announce the official results of the 2026 General Elections. Thank you for taking the time to learn about the candidates, consider their platforms, and exercise your right to vote. Your participation is an important part of shaping the Student Government that will serve the Benildean community. To the candidates, thank you for stepping forward, presenting your advocacies, and offering yourselves in service to the student body. Regardless of the outcome, your willingness to participate in the democratic process is worthy of recognition.
- Center for Learning Resources
- Help us improve by sharing your thoughts about our services, resources, and facilities. Your feedback will be treated as anonymous and confidential.
- School of Professional and Continuing Education
- On behalf of the School of Professional and Continuing Education, we sincerely thank all the departments and teams who extended their support and dedication in making our 23rd Graduation Exercises last August 15, 2026 a resounding success. Your collective efforts made it possible for us to deliver a meaningful and memorable ceremony for our graduates.
- School of Arts, Culture, and Performance
- The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Culture-Based Arts Program invites everyone to Sa Pagitan ng Katahimikan: A Benilde Fine Arts Exhibition 2026 will be held from September 1 to 30 at the Fundación Sansó Museum, San Juan City.
- The Creative Industries Management Program invites everyone to The Slim’s Method: A Documentary, a film by Marian Alferez, on rescheduled screening on 5 September 5, 2026 at 1:00 – 3:30 PM | 6/F Black Box, D+A Campus.
- Office of the President
- As we gear up for The Maverick Run 2026, we’re giving you the first opportunity to register before we open registration to the wider community and the public. Registration is NOW OPEN exclusively for Benilde associates. Here is the LINK to join.
- We are pleased to announce that the College will undergo the 554th Site Visit of the ASEAN University Network–Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Programme Assessment on September 1-3, 2026. Teams of AUN-QA assessors will evaluate four academic programmes from the School of Environment and Design (SED) and the School of Diplomacy and Governance (SDG), namely: Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Bachelor of Science in Interior Design, Bachelor of Arts Major in Fashion Design and Merchandising, and Bachelor of Arts in Diplomacy and International Affairs.
- Center for Lasallian Ministry
- As we open a new Academic Year 2026-2027, we invite the Benildean community to ground ourselves once more in the Holy Spirit who gives life, wisdom, and strength. Through the Mass of the Holy Spirit, let us entrust our Lasallian journey in Benilde: our studies, our teaching, our service, and our mission to the God who makes all things new. Together, as one community, let us gather in prayer to be renewed in faith, hope, and love. May this Eucharistic celebration mark not just the beginning of another year, but a deeper commitment to walk in the footsteps of Christ and Saint John Baptist de La Salle and Saint Benilde Romançon, guided always by the Spirit of truth, creativity, and compassion.
Upcoming Events
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