Perspective June 2025

June 2025 was a month of momentum and milestones for the Benildean community. From a historic NCAA season and the appointment of a new Vice President for Finance, to global partnerships with the British Council and Nova Scotia, the stories we shared this month celebrate academic excellence, bold creativity, and the power of community-driven impact.

Hotel Director Earns BS-HLM Degree While Managing a Luxury Hospitality Group

Working Mother and Operations Manager Completes BS-IS Program through ETEEAP

Magna Cum Laude Graduate Shares What Helped Her Succeed in Benilde’s REM Program

Completing a Doctorate While Working Full-Time is Possible for These Two Professionals

Benilde, British Council Strengthen English Proficiency and Global Readiness Among Senior High School Students

Student Startup Ideas Tackle Social Issues in Benilde-SUSS Bootcamp

God and GAD: Benilde Opens PRIDE Month with Faith and Inclusion

Deaf Learners to Benefit from Benilde-CEAD and DepEd Partnership

New Partnership Opens Pathways for Lasallian Students in New York and Manila

Nova Scotia Minister Visits Benilde to Deepen International Education Ties

Interdisciplinary Visions for Climate-Conscious Futures Take Shape at BADIP 2025

IDx 2025 Explores Kapwa, Creativity, and the Future of Filipino Product Design

First in the Philippines, Benilde Joins Global Network of Adobe Creative Campuses

Benilde ABM Strand Students Explore Social Innovation at Animo Create

Benildean Founders Behind Akosi Music Aren’t Chasing Virality, They’re Designing Legacy

Metro Hackathon Marks a Strategic Shift in Urban Planning Education at Benilde

PODO Hosts GAD and SOGIESC Workshop for Faculty and Staff

College Announces New VP for Finance as VP Lyn Cimatu Retires

Congratulations to our new 37 Benildean Architects for passing the June 2025 Architecture Licensure Examination (ALE)

A Historic NCAA Season for the Benilde Blazers!

Free To Be Green: PCN EV Report for May 2025 Announced

Admission Updates

Hotel Director Earns BS-HLM Degree While Managing a Luxury Hospitality Group

Going through the program wasn’t always easy. Vargas followed a strict calendar to balance work, studies, and personal life. He received support from his classmates and especially appreciated the help from his program coordinator.

Working Mother and Operations Manager Completes BS-IS Program through ETEEAP

One of the new BS-IS graduates is Marie Domenique Crescini Araullo, who managed to complete the program while working full-time as an Operations Manager and raising two children. She had spent six years in the BPO industry, handling international clients, even though she did not hold a college degree at the time. “I had to work twice as hard to prove I could lead,” said Araullo. “At first, I didn’t think I belonged in that space.”

Magna Cum Laude Graduate Shares What Helped Her Succeed in Benilde’s REM Program

Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Management graduate Sophia Stefanowitz finished her college journey strong, earning magna cum laude honors during the June 14, 2025 Commencement Exercises. Her success came not only from years of disciplined study, but also from a strong support system and a learning environment she described as encouraging, well-paced, and built for growth.

Completing a Doctorate While Working Full-Time is Possible for These Two Professionals

For both graduates, research was a major highlight. Dr. Sanchez-Buhay explored sustainability and resilience in tourism as the focus of her dissertation. “My passion for tourism and hospitality deepened, especially in the areas of sustainability and resilience,” she shared. “Benilde opened my eyes to the broader impact our field can make.”

Benilde, British Council Strengthen English Proficiency and Global Readiness Among Senior High School Students

DLS-CSB’s collaboration with the British Council reflects a shared vision of academic integrity, innovation, and global competence. “English proficiency is more than just a skill—it’s a passport to broader academic and professional opportunities,” said Mr. Teddy Dulce, Language Coordinator of Senior High School.

Student Startup Ideas Tackle Social Issues in Benilde-SUSS Bootcamp

The week-long bootcamp brought together students from Benilde’s Bachelor of Science in Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship program as well as SUSS students to develop tech-driven solutions to real-world problems. Divided into eight cross-border teams, participants explored innovative concepts, ranging from artificial intelligence and blockchain to data analytics, with several teams focusing on addressing urgent social challenges.

God and GAD: Benilde Opens PRIDE Month with Faith and Inclusion

De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde launched its 2025 PRIDE Month celebration with a pioneering event that brought together faith, identity, and inclusion in a shared dialogue. Held on June 9 at the Duerr Auditorium, the seminar titled GOD and GAD: Rediscovering Spirituality in a Gendered World was organized by the Office of the Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life–Gender and Development (OVP-LMSL–GAD), the Center for Lasallian Ministry (CLM), and the Benilde Student Government (BeSG).

Deaf Learners to Benefit from Benilde-CEAD and DepEd Partnership

The Department of Education Schools Division Office of Muntinlupa (DepEd SDO-Muntinlupa) and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde signed a memorandum of agreement on June 5, 2025. The partnership aims to promote academic success of Deaf learners in Muntinlupa City through a Deaf-centered bilingual secondary education program.

New Partnership Opens Pathways for Lasallian Students in New York and Manila

De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde and Manhattan University in New York signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on June 9, launching a student exchange program between the two Lasallian schools. The agreement opens international learning opportunities for undergraduate students starting in the First Term of AY 2025-2026.

Nova Scotia Minister Visits Benilde to Deepen International Education Ties

Hon. Brendan Maguire, Nova Scotia’s Minister of Advanced Education, visited De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in Manila to explore new pathways for academic exchange, student mobility, and collaboration between Philippine and Canadian higher education institutions. He was joined by Deputy Minister Tracey Barbick and other officials from the Nova Scotia government and the Canadian Embassy.

Interdisciplinary Visions for Climate-Conscious Futures Take Shape at BADIP 2025

The 2025 Benilde Architecture and Design Innovation Prize (BADIP) wrapped up with a showcase of bold ideas that reimagine everyday living through adaptive, sustainable, and community-centered solutions. Held on June 13 at the Design + Arts Campus, the competition brought together student teams from across programs to present future-facing concepts that intersect architecture, product design, and urban innovation.

IDx 2025 Explores Kapwa, Creativity, and the Future of Filipino Product Design

Designers, educators, and policymakers gathered on June 10, 2025 at the Benilde Design + Arts Campus for IDx Conversations, a roundtable that explored how ethics, empathy, and Filipino values shape the practice of design. Held in celebration of World Industrial Design Day, the event was organized by the Design Center of the Philippines in partnership with Benilde Industrial Design, bringing together thought leaders who champion design’s role in social, cultural, and economic development.

First in the Philippines, Benilde Joins Global Network of Adobe Creative Campuses

Benilde earned the designation through its consistent integration of creativity into teaching practices, program development, and school-wide initiatives. As part of the Creative Campus network, the College provides full access to Adobe Express Premium for all students and faculty, supporting content creation across disciplines including posters, presentations, social media assets, and generative AI designs.

Benilde ABM Strand Students Explore Social Innovation at Animo Create

Benilde Senior High School students from the Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) strand recently participated in the second edition of Animo Create: Benildean Youth Shaping What’s Next, a three-day design thinking workshop led by the Hub of Innovation for Inclusion (Benilde HiFi). Held from June 9 to 11 at the Augusto-Rosario Gonzalez Theater, the program challenged students to address real-world issues through empathy-driven innovation.

Benildean Founders Behind Akosi Music Aren’t Chasing Virality, They’re Designing Legacy

Architect and technopreneur Alexander Abear, multimedia creative Earl Marquez, and UX strategist Lennard Koa Lee are the co-founders of Akosi Music PH. Each brings a distinct discipline into the fold, bridging architecture, design, business strategy, and user experience into one clear message: music is more than content. It’s culture, it’s identity, and it deserves to be owned with purpose.

Metro Hackathon Marks a Strategic Shift in Urban Planning Education at Benilde

On June 28, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde hosted the Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners (PIEP) NCR South’s first Metro Hackathon in Metro Manila. The seminar gathered students, planners, architects, and educators to examine how climate stress, governance gaps, and infrastructure challenges are reshaping the region, and what planners must do next.

PODO Hosts GAD and SOGIESC Workshop for Faculty and Staff

On June 23, 2025, 38 faculty members and non-teaching associates from the Senior High School and College levels joined a Gender and Development and SOGIESC Workshop facilitated by Ms. Nicole Trisha Panganiban of the Office of the Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life. The workshop was held in two sessions and introduced core concepts on gender, inclusivity, and the use of gender-fair language in academic and workplace settings.

Gender and Development (GAD) is a rights-based approach that promotes equal participation and fair treatment of all genders by recognizing differences in roles, needs, and experiences. This foundational workshop was part of the College’s efforts to build awareness and strengthen inclusive practices in daily interactions and institutional culture.

Delivered through interactive lectures, games, and open dialogue, the sessions encouraged reflection on real-life scenarios and offered practical strategies for inclusion. Participants described the session as eye-opening and relevant, with feedback highlighting a deeper understanding of diversity, identity, and respect. The program was jointly opened and closed by PODO Director Ms. Chona Rodulfa and SSPU Head Mr. Jeric Mansalapus, with sessions anchored by Ms. Panganiban’s accessible and engaging approach.

College Announces New VP for Finance as VP Lyn Cimatu Retires

On July 1, 2025, Mr. Tirso Raymond “Mon” Gutierrez officially began his tenure as Vice President for Finance at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde. He brings with him a strong background in banking, fintech, and government service, including his role as Chief of Staff at the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s Office of e-Government. “Please join us in warmly welcoming Mr. Mon Gutierrez to the Benildean community,” said Brother President Br. Edmundo “Dodo” Fernandez FSC.

Mr. Gutierrez’s appointment follows the retirement of Ms. Lyn Cimatu, whose leadership helped the College navigate financial challenges during the pandemic and prepare for the implementation of the SAP Grow system. “We take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to Ms. Cimatu for her dedicated service to Benilde,” Brother Dodo added, honoring her lasting contributions to the institution.

Congratulations to our new 37 Benildean Architects for passing the June 2025 Architecture Licensure Examination (ALE).

Benilde’s overall passing rate of 86.05% is well above the national average of 65.16%, with first takers achieving an 86.9% passing rate. We are proud of you all, and our College’s consistent performance in every architecture licensure examination. Animo Benilde!

A Historic NCAA Season for the Benilde Blazers!

Animo Benilde! Congratulations to our #BenildeBlazers Men’s Volleyball Team for securing 3rd place in the NCAA Season 100 tournament, and to our Benilde Lady Blazers for their incredible 4-peat championship victory! History has been made, and we couldn’t be prouder.

Free To Be Green: PCN EV Report for May 2025 Announced

The Center for Built Environment and Logistics released a report on June 11, showing data on Benilde’s electric vehicle emissions for May 2025. The report explains how the Dong Feng Passenger Van, Savvice Electric Shuttle Service, and Traditional E-Jeep Shuttle Service helped reduce the College’s carbon footprint by using more sustainable transportation.

As we continue to promote eco-friendly practices, the Benildean Community is encouraged to make small, everyday choices that support a greener lifestyle. Choosing electric transport or building simple habits for sustainability can help create a cleaner and more environment-friendly future.

Admission for AY 2025-2026 is extended until July 15

We’re now in the final stretch of our admissions campaign for Academic Year 2025-2026! Let your family and friends know that the last day to submit applications is July 15, 2025, and the final Benildean Entrance Examination (BEE) will be held on July 26, 2025.

Thank you to our Administrators, Associates, and partners, including parents, students, alumni, partner schools, and others who helped share information and contributed to the success of this recruitment campaign. Your support has made a meaningful impact in welcoming future Benildeans.

In Case You Missed It

Center for Emergency Management, Safety, and Security
- During the May 27 earthquake, the accelerograph data show that the quake did not pose a risk to any of our building’s integrity; thus, the general evacuation alarm was not triggered. We are happy that there have been no reported injuries or accidents during yesterday’s incident. For any observed, falling or tripping hazards during yesterday’s earthquake, please report such to the CEMSS or the CFMCD Office. Your awareness and preparedness are essential in promoting a secure and resilient Benildean community.
Office of the Registrar
- Following the recent announcement from the Office of the Chancellor on the suspension of classes on June 6, here is the updated academic calendar for 3rd Term AY 2024-2025: June 6 No Classes | June 7 Follow Saturday regular classes | August 9 Follow Thursday regular classes | August 11 Free Day – No Classes | August 12-18 Final Exams Week.
- To all Faculty Members, the biometrics system will be fully implemented at both Atrium and AKIC campuses starting July 1. Kindly scan the QR code shown in the actual email announcement for instructions on how to use the system.
- With the new Student Management System in place soon, there will be no more enlistment and no more online academic advising.
School of Arts, Culture, and Performance
- Due to ongoing office renovations, SACP Program Offices will be temporarily relocated to the following locations: 5F Sceneshop Aquarium – Production Design and Theater Arts; A708 (local 3741) – Dance and Music Production; A1407 – Creative Industries Management and Fine Arts in Culture-Based Arts
Office of the Institutional Effectiveness and Research
- 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.
- 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.
Office of the Vice President for Finance
- Effective June 6, 2025, all payroll-related questions and concerns must be submitted through the new Payroll Helpdesk in Benilde’s Helpdesk Website. The Payroll Helpdesk in Benilde’s Helpdesk website ensures better tracking, resolution, and reporting of payroll-related issues. Here is the LINK. The payslips will no longer be sent via email. All associates may access their payslips through the Employee Self-Service (ESS) portal in Traverse. Everyone is encouraged to check their payslips as soon as they become available, particularly for the June 10th and 15th payrolls. This helps ensure the early identification and resolution of any discrepancies related to the system transition.
Innovation Office
- Unlock your creativity, your unique perspective and innovative ideas can shape the future! Your idea matters, and together, we can create something extraordinary. All members of Benildean community are encouraged to contribute and help shape the future of our institution through creative and practical innovation. Benildean associates and students whose ideas are adopted will receive proper attribution for their contributions to the campaign. The College will retain ownership of any new intellectual property developed from the ‘Be IT’ campaign.
Center for Health and Medical Services
- The commencement of our annual influenza vaccination batch 2 program for our associates, their family members, and dependents will be organized by the Benild Clinic: the Quadrivalent influenza vaccine. The flu vaccine offers numerous benefits for our families, including the protection of individual health, prevention of transmission within the household, and support for overall well-being and productivity. It is a proactive measure that promotes the health and safety of all family members, particularly those who are most vulnerable to the effects of influenza. The cost of the vaccine will be divided into two payments, which will be deducted from your pay on July 10 and July 25, 2025. Flu Vaccination program dates: June 28 and July 5 at 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, AKIC and Taft clinics.
School of Professional and Continuing Education
- Advance your skill, rain or shine, this July 2025. Refer to the Program Calendar for the schedule of each module we are offering this year.

Benilde Well-Being Center
- The People and Organization Development Office (PODO), in collaboration with BWC, requires associates with 11-15 years of service to the College, to attend the Adult Formation activity entitled RIPPLES: Making Your Mark by Caring for Others on July 9, Wednesday, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM to be held at BWC Conference Room, Benilde Taft Campus. “RIPPLES” is the fourth module of the “Be Well Program for Associates,” a five-part program that aims to help the participants understand the meaning and value of one’s contribution to the community in a meaningful way and enhance one’s knowledge and skills that will promote generativity and reduce stagnation in the workplace. This will promote the integration of the well-being competencies.
Digital Technology Office
- Benilde has been designated as the first Adobe Creative Campus in the Philippines. This means we are part of a select group of institutions that have empowered every student to learn creative, productivity, and AI skills. With access to Adobe Creative Campus, Adobe Express, and generative AI features from Adobe Firefly, you can communicate more effectively in impactful formats like presentations, videos, data visualizations, and podcasts — while using AI responsibly and ethically. You can also explore learning resources and online courses through Adobe Education Exchange.
Center for Lasallian Ministry
- In commemoration of the Birth Anniversary of Saint Benilde Romançon on June 14 and in preparation for his Feast Day on August 13, the Center for Lasallian Ministry invites the Benildean community to a special time of devotion, prayer, and reflection: Around Benilde in 60 Days: the visit of his sacred relic in the different offices of the four campuses of the College..
People Organization and Development Office
- We are invited to a unique Experiential Learning Session on Relaxation on July 8, 3:00 – 5:00 PM at the 5F ARG Theater, Taft Campus, designed to help you explore powerful techniques for stress relief and mental well-being in an immersive, hands-on environment. This is a wonderful opportunity to pause, reconnect with yourself, and learn methods that support both personal and professional resilience.
- Don’t miss out on our ongoing Tone-Up Thursday: Zumba Sessions — your weekly dose of fun, fitness, and feel-good vibes! This is held Every Thursday, until July 10, from 5:00 – 6:30 PM.
Center for Procurement
- Everyone is encouraged to practice timely submission of travel-related requirements to ensure smooth processing: 60 working days before travel for local and international tours without a visa; and, 90 working days before travel for Europe and other international tours requiring visas. Please submit your Travel Requests via the Online Purchase Request system within these timelines. All necessary documents and guidelines can be found in the travel data sheet.
Center for Inclusive Education
- Come join us for “Ang Kakayahan ng Kapwa: Exploring Diversity and Inclusion in the Lens of Filipino Psychology,” a safe space for learning and reflection, where we talk about building a more inclusive community through the lens of Filipino Psychology. This event is on July 1, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM via ZOOM. This is open to ALL BENILDEANS and NON-BENILDEANS.
Office of the Chancellor
- The College announces that it will undergo a PAASCU (Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities) Accreditation Visit on June 30–July 1 and July 3–4, 2025. Multiple teams of PAASCU Accreditors will visit several programs from the School of Management and Information Technology – Analytics, Computing, and Infotech (SMIT-ACI), School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management (SHRIM), School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS), School of New Media Arts(SNMA), School of Arts, Culture, and Performance (SACP), and School of Environment and Design (SED).
Office of the President
- OP invites everyone to the special culminating lecture event of the 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Transformative Leadership Institute Lecture Series featuring 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee MIYAZAKI HAYAO of Japan entitled, “The Magic of Miyazaki: Inspiring Peace and the Human Spirit Through Purposeful Storytelling”. This event is on July 16 (Wednesday) from 3:00 – 5:00 PM via LIVESTREAM, and is presented in partnership with Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation.
Office of the Vice President for Administration
- This is to update the community on the upgrading of our passenger elevators at the Design+Arts Campus. The first phase of installation of the elevator parts is set for completion over the weekend. Thus, as Passenger Elevators 1 and 2 return to operational service by Monday, June 30, work shifts to Elevators 3 and 4. You may check the updated schedule in the actual email announcement.