Perspective July 2025

July 2025 was all about showing up and moving forward, rain or shine. Even with unpredictable weather, the Benildean community kept the energy going. We hosted events that sparked ideas, celebrated achievements, and strengthened connections. From honoring our Safe Spaces advocates to welcoming international guests and recognizing alumni impact, this month’s stories remind us what it means to stay committed, creative, and connected.

GAD Specialist Leads Safe Spaces Act Orientation on Rights and Responsibilities

AFP Awards Plaque of Distinction to Benilde for Support to Fallen Soldiers’ Families

Danish Ambassador Discusses Indo-Pacific Relations with Students

Faculty and Staff at Benilde Can Now Apply for CHED’s SIKAP Grant

Forum on Miyazaki’s Legacy Explores Empathy, AI, and Collaboration in the Arts

The Philippines’ First Game Development Program Celebrates 15 Years at PGDX 2025

Alumni Ventures Making Impact Celebrated at BeAT Awards 2025

SMITENSITY 2025 Showcases Business and Tech Learning Beyond the Classroom

Challenging Old Marketing Habits at PMA’s Fourth General Meeting Hosted by Benilde

Inclusive Design Takes the Spotlight in Seminar Led by Benilde’s SED

Utah’s Largest Public University Signs Academic Exchange Agreement with Benilde

Artelier Joins Faculty Mentor Abe Orobia in Two Exhibitions Exploring Growth and Connection

TVL and GAS Students Lead Inclusive Prototypes in Latest Animo Create Workshop

CLR-Taft Reopens with a Fresh Look and Welcoming Spaces

LOOK: UNITE 2025

Benilde PRIME 2025 Champions Campus-Wide Disaster Preparedness

Congratulations to Our Benildean Achievers!

LOOK: Scenes from the Benilde League

Benilde Welcomes PAASCU for Accreditation Visit

GAD Specialist Leads Safe Spaces Act Orientation on Rights and Responsibilities

Benilde students joined a campus orientation on the Safe Spaces Act, led by Gender and Development (GAD) Specialist Nicole Trisha Panganiban. Held on July 28, 2025, at the Augusto-Rosario Gonzalez Theater, the session was part of the Student Services Assembly and focused on how the law protects people from sexual harassment in schools, workplaces, and online.

AFP Awards Plaque of Distinction to Benilde for Support to Fallen Soldiers’ Families

Benilde received a Plaque of Distinction from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during the 25th Anniversary Recognition Ceremony of the AFP Educational Benefit System Office (AFPEBSO) held on August 1 at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Danish Ambassador Discusses Indo-Pacific Relations with Students

His Excellency Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin, Ambassador of Denmark to the Philippines, visited Benilde on July 15, 2025, to speak with students about the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific region. The lecture was part of the Ambassadors’ Lecture Series organized by the School of Diplomacy and Governance.

Faculty and Staff at Benilde Can Now Apply for CHED’s SIKAP Grant

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is now accepting applications for the SIKAP Grant (Scholarships for Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program), a national initiative that supports graduate studies for qualified faculty and staff in higher education institutions. This opportunity is open to all Benildean personnel who meet CHED’s eligibility criteria and are ready to pursue advanced academic training.

Forum on Miyazaki's Legacy Explores Empathy, AI, and Collaboration in the Arts

A public forum held on July 15 at the Augusto-Rosario Gonzalez Theater explored the legacy of Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki and the role of storytelling in promoting peace, empathy, and creativity. The event was part of the Ramon Magsaysay Transformative Leadership Institute (RMTLI) Lecture Series organized by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF).

The Philippines’ First Game Development Program Celebrates 15 Years at PGDX 2025

Benilde’s Game Design and Development Program marked its 15th anniversary with a special celebration at PGDX 2025, the Philippine Game Developers Expo. Held from July 25 to 27 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, the event gathered game studios, educators, students, and professionals from across the country and beyond for three days of showcases, talks, and collaboration.

Alumni Ventures Making Impact Celebrated at BeAT Awards 2025

Ten alumni-led startups were honored at the Benilde Alumni Technopreneur (BeAT) Awards 2025, held on July 23 at the CWC Interiors Design Center. The event recognized Benildean graduates who are creating meaningful change through innovation, entrepreneurship, and discipline-driven ventures.

SMITENSITY 2025 Showcases Business and Tech Learning Beyond the Classroom

SMITensity 2025 brought together students from the School of Management and Information Technology for a week of learning, collaboration, and industry engagement. Held from July 8 to 12 at The Atrium@Benilde Campus, the event focused on progress, innovation, and hands-on experience in business and tech.

Challenging Old Marketing Habits at PMA’s Fourth General Meeting Hosted by Benilde

Benilde hosted the fourth General Membership Meeting of the Philippine Marketing Association last July 2 at Hotel Benilde. The event brought together more than 150 marketers, entrepreneurs and senior executives from across the country. The theme focused on how artificial intelligence can help brands understand Filipino customers with more empathy and less guesswork.

Inclusive Design Takes the Spotlight in Seminar Led by Benilde’s SED

The School of Environment and Design (SED) led a seminar on inclusive architecture and accessibility last July 18 at the Design+Arts Campus. Titled Accessible by Design: A Physical Accessibility and Design Seminar, the event was organized in partnership with the Benilde Center for Inclusive Education (CIE) and was designed to engage Benildean students in inclusive design practices.

Utah’s Largest Public University Signs Academic Exchange Agreement with Benilde

Benilde signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Utah Valley University (UVU) on July 7, 2025, at Vatel Restaurant Manila, Atrium Campus. The agreement formalizes a partnership that will promote academic exchange, collaborative learning, and international engagement between the two institutions.

Artelier Joins Faculty Mentor Abe Orobia in Two Exhibitions Exploring Growth and Connection

Two exhibitions curated by Benilde faculty member and artist Eleazar Abraham “Abe” L. Orobia gave students and alumni from the traditional arts organization ARTELIER a rare chance to share their work with the public, outside the classroom and inside professional galleries.

TVL and GAS Students Lead Inclusive Prototypes in Latest Animo Create Workshop

Senior High School students from the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) and General Academic Strand (GAS) recently completed the second batch of this year’s Animo Create: Benildean Youth Shaping What’s Next, a three-day design thinking workshop led by the Hub of Innovation for Inclusion (HiFi).

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CLR-Taft Reopens with a Fresh Look and Welcoming Spaces

CLR-Taft now has fresh interiors, new study spots, and comfy furniture, perfect for Benildeans who want to study, work together, or take a break.

LOOK: UNITE 2025

UNITE 2025 was held on July 18 at the MFC Parking Grounds and Greenway Square, organized by the Student Trainers (STRAINS) with help from the Stage Production Operations Team (SPOT). The year-end concert brought together Benildeans from different programs to enjoy performances and celebrate student creativity. The event featured acts from the Saint Benilde Romançon Dance Company (SBRDC), Karilyo, DJ Joch, LUMI, and headliner SHANNi.

More than just a show, UNITE gave student artists a chance to share their work and connect with the community. Groups like Karilyo used their music to talk about real issues, while students in the crowd appreciated how the event highlighted local talent and teamwork. For many students, UNITE was a fun break from school and a chance to enjoy music, support their friends, and feel part of the Benildean Community.

Benilde PRIME 2025 Champions Campus-Wide Disaster Preparedness

In celebration of Benilde’s 35th founding anniversary, the Center for Emergency Management, Safety, and Security (CEMSS) mounted the 2025 edition of Benilde PRIME: Promoting Resilience through Innovation in Managing Emergencies from July 1 to 5 across all campuses. Co-presented by the Benilde Alumni Association and supported by the Office of the Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life, the weeklong initiative featured interactive exhibits, expert-led seminars, and hands-on training sessions in partnership with the Manila DRRM Office, MMDA, BFP, and other key agencies.

Highlights included the Fire Square Roadshow, CPR stations, and a multi-day exhibit showcasing emergency response tools and protocols. Students and associates engaged with speakers from PHIVOLCS, DENR-MGB, and Civil Defense PH, while renowned crisis expert Martin Aguda Jr. led a seminar on disaster readiness. The event concluded with occupational first aid training, affirming Benilde’s commitment to proactive safety education and community resilience.

The event also recognized the vital role of partner barangays, whose collaboration was facilitated through the Benilde Center for Social Action. Their presence at the exhibits and seminars showed how community efforts and shared learning can make disaster preparedness more practical and inclusive.

Now on its second year, Benilde PRIME builds on the success of its 2024 launch, which featured earthquake simulations, cybercrime awareness seminars, and a blood donation drive. Held every July in observance of National Disaster Resilience Month, the initiative reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to practical, community-based preparedness across all campuses.

The Center’s sustained efforts in promoting safety and preparedness proved timely when a series of heavy rainfall and flooding affected Metro Manila later in July. With classes suspended across the city, CEMSS provided timely advisories and updates through its official Facebook page, helping guide the Benildean Community through the situation with clarity and care.

Benilde PRIME is part of a broader, year-round commitment to emergency readiness. Earlier this year, CEMSS conducted a campus-wide fire drill in collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection, testing evacuation protocols and reinforcing fire safety awareness among students, faculty, and staff.

To stay informed about upcoming drills, seminars, and safety initiatives, follow the official CEMSS Facebook page for updates and announcements.

Congratulations to Our Benildean Achievers!

This month’s board passers, exam topnotchers, and sports champs showed us what Benildean excellence looks like. And we’re all cheering them on!

LOOK: Scenes from the Benilde League

The Benilde League showcased Benildean camaraderie and blazing spirit through sportsmanship, featuring basketball, volleyball, and e-games.

The event was made possible with the guidance and support of the Benilde Center for Student Life, the Office of the Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life, and Benildean Parents in Action.
Congratulations to the organizers and winners!

Benilde Welcomes PAASCU for Accreditation Visit

Last June 30 to July 1 and July 3 to 4, 2025, the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU) held its Accreditation Visit at Benilde. This visit affirms the College’s continued commitment to academic excellence and quality assurance.

PAASCU Accreditors visited several programs across different schools, including:

Resurvey Programs:

Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Arts
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management
Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Luxury Management (formerly Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management)

Formal Survey Programs:

Bachelor in Applied Deaf Studies
Bachelor in Performing Arts, Major in Dance
Bachelor of Arts in Music Production
Bachelor of Arts in Production Design
Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts
Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design and Merchandising
Bachelor of Arts in Photography

The Center for Quality Management and Accreditation, led by Mr. Geronio Ulayao, played a key role in guiding the process. His leadership helped ensure that everything was clear, organized, and purposeful.

Academic leaders and associates also gave their full support. Their hard work and dedication helped strengthen the programs and build a culture of innovation, integrity, and growth at Benilde.

This achievement is a proud moment for the entire Benildean community. It shows what can happen when people work together with a shared vision. Benilde continues to grow and lead in education, both in the Philippines and beyond.

In Case You Missed It

Office of the President
- We announce the appointment of Mr. Tirso Raymond S. Gutierrez as Vice President for Finance of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. He is a part-time faculty member at SMIT. He brings with him experiences in finance, banking, insurance, sales, and fintech from companies such as Union Bank of the Philippines, Robocash Finance Corporation, Grover–Nityo Technologies; and CMD Corporation. He currently serves as Chief of Staff at the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s Office of e-Government. Mr Gutierrez will officially begin his tenure on July 1, 2025. In the interim period leading to the retirement of Ms. Lyn Cimatu on August 31, 2025, they will collaborate closely to ensure a smooth and seamless transition at the Finance Office. Please join us in warmly welcoming Mr. Mon Gutierrez to the Benildean community and in extending our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Lyn Cimatu for her many years of faithful service.
- The call for proposals for the second edition of Benilde Open Design + Art ends on July 31, 2025. This year’s theme, “Extension of Nature,” invites us to explore how nature and technology intersect to shape an imaginative future. We welcome submissions in two categories: Benilde Open (open to all creative practitioners, including students), with up to 10 grantees receiving as much as ₱300,000 each; Best of Benilde (for Benildean students and alumni), with up to 5 grantees receiving up to ₱50,000 each to realize their projects. Everyone is encouraged to take part in this opportunity to contribute to the evolving discourse of our creative fields. We call on our faculty to mentor and support students as they explore the possibilities offered by Benilde Open Design + Art—an initiative that aims to enrich both academic inquiry and design and artistic practice.
Center for Restorative Discipline
- CRD shares the Lost and Found Catalog, where you can conveniently view an up-to-date list of lost and found items from all Benilde campuses — in real-time. Access the catalog here: Lost & Found Catalog Link. If you find an item that belongs to you, we kindly invite you to visit the CRD office on your respective campus from July 1 to 31, 2025, between 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Center for Built Environment and Logistics
- The rental slots are still available at Avida Condo for Benildean Associates. Currently, there are 2 slots available for males and 3 slots for females, each priced at Php 5,000 per month with a 1-year contract.
Office of the Vice President for Finance
- All payments for Student ID 124 and below will be processed through BEStAR. Whether paying tuition or other school-related fees, you can do it conveniently through BEStAR. To help you get started, you may refer to the user guide and video tutorial by clicking here. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to Helpdesk.
School of Environment Design
- Every ticket you buy isn’t just a shot at these amazing prizes, it’s a step closer to bringing hope and healing school clinic of St. Jaime Hilario – De La Salle Bataan, a Mission School by the Sea serving its fishing and farming community. All sales proceeds from your raffle entries goes to our funds for the interior design renovation of DLS-B’s school clinic. Grab your raffle ticket now: https://bit.ly/JoinINTDXHIAliwayRaffle, https://bit.ly/JoinINTDXHIAliwayRaffle, https://bit.ly/JoinINTDXHIAliwayRaffle. Winners will be announced on August 5.
Office of the Institutional Effectiveness and Research
- Let us enhance our Cafeteria and Store Service by scanning the QR Code available on each cafeteria table to share your feedback directly, whether you are dining in or grabbing a take-out or at your convenience – anytime, anywhere, and on any day, please fill out our accessible google form.
- Share your feedback through our e-Shuttle Rider’s Evaluation. Your input is essential to helping us improve our service and ensure we continue to meet your needs. How to Provide Your Feedback: Option 1: Scan the QR Code available inside the e-shuttle. Option 2: To offer feedback at your convenience – anytime, anywhere, and on any day, please fill out this link.

Center for Institutional Communications and Benilde Marketing Center
- The College’s new website www.benilde.edu.ph is now live! The development of the new website is part of the Strategic Initiatives for Marketing to ensure that our online presence stays dynamic and up-to-date. Should you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to share them with us through the Benilde Website Feedback Form (https://forms.gle/UAC1L3cUKRhKWG9X8).
School of Professional and Continuing Education
- Keep your passion for learning alive this August 2025. Please refer to the Program Calendar for the schedule of each module we are offering this year.
Office of the Chancellor – Hotel Benilde
- Step into style. Relax in luxury. Live the Suite Life. This August, elevate your escape and experience The Suite Life with our limited-time offers on the Presidential and Executive Suites. Whether you’re rewarding yourself, planning a special celebration, or simply craving comfort and class, our premium suites offer a luxurious city retreat like no other.
Center for Social Action
- Calling on the Benildean community to provide urgent support to communities affected by Typhoons Crising and Dante, and the Habagat monsoon. Send your support via GCash (you may refer to the QR code in the poster on the actual announcement). Don’t forget to email your proof of donation to social.action@benilde.edu.ph.
Center for Learning Resources
- In light of the suspension of classes announced by the College, CLR will not impose overdue fines for borrowed book(s) with due dates falling during the affected period. This aims to ease concerns and support our students and faculty during unforeseen disruptions. In the event that classes are officially suspended or has shifted to online learning by the institution, borrowed library materials with due dates that fall within the affected period shall not incur overdue fines. The suspension of fines will remain in effect until the resumption of regular on-site classes and work operations. Once regular on-site classes and operations resume, we kindly ask that you return borrowed materials at your earliest convenience to avoid future penalties.
Benilde Well-being Center
- The aftermath of the Typhoons and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) may have had an adverse effect on your mental health. If you need counseling, you may reach out to bwc@benilde.edu.ph. To avail of the counseling service, you may click the following links: For personal counseling https://bit.ly/CounselingRequestFormBWC. For referral http://bit.ly/BWConlinereferral. We are open from Mondays to Fridays, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. You may send a message to: bwc@benilde.edu.ph. Follow our Facebook Pages: @BenildeWellBeing @BWC.DeafUnit.
Office of the Registrar
- Due to recent class cancellations from inclement weather, pre-enrollment has been rescheduled to: August 4–9, 2025. We are using this time to thoroughly review and finalize course offerings, including assessments and fees, to ensure everything is accurate and ready for you. Our goal is to maintain a smooth and stress-free enrollment experience. To support this, we have designated July 28 to August 1, 2025, as the Student Record Viewing and Validation Period. During this time, we kindly ask you to log in to your BEStAR accounts to review your personal information, credited courses, degree program and track, and courses taken as reflected in the evaluation module. If you notice any discrepancies or missing information, please report them to ro.records@benilde.edu.ph on or before August 1, 2025.
- Due to several cancellations of classes, please take note of the calendar updates for Term 3, AY 2024-2025 on the actual email announcement.
Information Systems and Technology Office
- Microsoft OneDrive has resumed normal operations. Files are now fully accessible for viewing, editing, and uploads. We appreciate your patience while the issue was being addressed in coordination with Microsoft and our service provider. Please continue to review your storage and delete any unused or unofficial files, as part of housekeeping activities.