PODO organized a Zumba Fest on March 10, 2025, at the 6F Gymnasium, Taft Campus, in celebration of International Women’s Day.
Notable Stories in March 2025
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- Insights, Innovation, and Inspiration Highlight PJMA’s 38th General Assembly at Benilde
- Aviation Leader Earns Degree Through Benilde’s Flexible ETEEAP Program
- Graduates of SHRIM Programs Celebrate New Beginnings
- AI in Global Affairs Takes Center Stage at Roundtable Discussion at Benilde
- Benilde Expands Global Academic and Diplomatic Partnerships in Mexico
- New Exchange Program Links University of the Arts Singapore and Benilde
- Marco Polo Program Connects Vatel Mexico and Benilde for Student Exchange
- Benilde and Nestlé Philippines Cook Up Culinary and Career Opportunities Through YOCUTA and Expanded Partnerships
- Finance Office Holds Roadshow 2025 for Process Updates and Engagement
- Recap: Benilde Mid-Year Performance Review
- New Program Offerings!
- CEMSS Reinforces Fire Preparedness with Campus-Wide Drill
- Zumba Fest for International Women’s Day
- CSA’s Safe Spaces Primer Announced
- A Seal Creativity with Benilde and Bostik
- NCAA Updates
- Admissions Updates
- In Case You Missed It
- Upcoming Events
Benilde Marketing Management program hosted the 38th PJMA General Assembly, bringing together over 500 marketing students to explore brand loyalty and retention strategies. Industry experts shared insights on emotional connections, digital engagement, and niche marketing, empowering future leaders in the field.
Aviation professional Sahl Andrew Onglatco always knew experience was his greatest asset, but earning a degree was the missing piece that could open new doors. Thanks to Benilde’s ETEEAP, he finally made it happen—without stepping away from his thriving career. His journey proves that balancing work, studies, and personal commitments isn’t just possible, but incredibly rewarding.
SHRIM programs continue to shape future leaders in hospitality and tourism, equipping graduates with the skills and experiences to thrive in the industry. As they step into new opportunities, their journeys reflect the dedication, perseverance, and passion that define Benildean excellence.
SDG brought together experts to discuss AI’s growing influence in global affairs, from diplomacy to cybersecurity. The roundtable underscored the importance of responsible AI governance and how future leaders must adapt to an evolving international landscape.
During the Lasallian Internationalization Summit at La Salle Pachuca, Benilde joined 16 other Lasallian institutions in discussing student mobility, virtual learning, and expanding partnerships. Additional talks with UPAEP and a diplomatic visit to the Philippine Embassy in Mexico further cemented initiatives for student exchanges and academic cooperation.
Benilde and the University of the Arts Singapore (UAS) have launched a student exchange program, allowing students in film, fine arts, design, media, performing arts, and arts management to study at each other’s institutions. The agreement, signed last March, enables up to 10 students per academic year to participate, with tuition fees waived at the host institution while students cover travel and living expenses.
Benilde and Vatel Mexico have partnered to expand international learning opportunities for hospitality students through the Marco Polo Program. This exchange enables students to immerse themselves in global hospitality environments while continuing their studies at a Vatel campus abroad.
Through its partnership with Benilde, Nestlé Philippines continues to expand culinary education and career pathways via the YOCUTA program and new collaborative initiatives. While SHRIM students refine their culinary expertise through YOCUTA, SMIT and SDEAS engage in internships, employment opportunities, guest lectures, industry visits, and curriculum development.
Finance Office Holds Roadshow 2025 for Process Updates and Engagement
On March 11, 2025, Benilde held its annual Finance Roadshow at the Ideation Room, Atrium Campus. The event gathered administrators, faculty, staff, parents and student representatives to discuss updates on the College’s financial processes, address challenges, and align the community with ongoing projects. Both on-site and virtual attendees participated in the session.
Vice President for Finance, Ms. Marilyn Cimatu opened the program by emphasizing the importance of reviewing key financial processes, addressing problematic areas, and introducing updates and initiatives for the year. She also acknowledged the presence of representatives from student organizations and Parents’ Association (BePIA), stating that they were invited to ensure the Finance Office could address the needs of various stakeholders.
The Finance Office presented its updated organizational structure, which has been streamlined into two main centers: the Center for Accounting Services, which handles payroll, cost accounting, accounts payable, revenue and general accounting, and the Center for Financial Planning and Resource Management, which oversees budgets, treasury, and investments. New systems, including the General Accounts Portal and SAP S/4HANA accounting software, were introduced to enhance operational efficiency and transparency.
Attendees were also briefed on updates regarding the College official payment channels to ensure that all transactions are safe and secure. Policy reminders, such as proper submission of documents for payment requests and compliance with tax regulations, were shared to ensure streamlined processes across the College.
The Finance Office highlighted several ongoing projects during the event. These included the development of an ISO-compliant finance manual, the implementation of new HR and student management systems, and enhancements to financial operations. Additionally, reminders were given regarding payroll schedules, loan processing, and proper documentation for reimbursements.
The Finance Office also released a copy of the presentation, which can be accessed here.
Recap: Benilde Mid-Year Performance Review
The Benilde Mid-Year Performance Review for Academic Year 2024–2025 was held on March 20, 2025, at the Design+Arts Campus Theater. The event revealed that the institution’s mid-year performance reached 81.10%, a significant improvement from last year’s 59.86%. Notably, three Strategic Initiative Teams (SITMs) exceeded their targets: SI Marketing with a performance rate of 104.76%, SI Lasallian Formation at 102.33%, and SI Digital Transformation achieving 100%.
Hosted by Ms. Mary Diane Ilagan and Ms. Angeli Villamor, the program included presentations, performance analyses, a Q&A session, and the introduction of the new “Free To Be” marketing campaign.
Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC opened the event by likening the Institution’s strategic initiatives to the guiding symbols of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. He emphasized their role in achieving institutional targets, stating, “You follow your SIs properly, you reach your goals.” He called for reflection and celebration, noting that strategic planning is “a necessary burden that allows us the opportunity to constantly fine-tune where we’re going.” Brother Dodo concluded by encouraging adaptability, collaboration, and commitment to stakeholders.
The presentations began with the SI Academics team, represented by Dr. Gary Ador Dionisio of School of Diplomacy and Governance and Ms. Vanessa Puente of Center for Faculty Advancement. Their focus areas included redesigning program offerings for compliance and relevance, developing accessible pathways, and enhancing faculty development. Highlights included the integration of AI policies into senior high school lesson plans and progress toward accreditation for PAASCU and ASEAN University Network programs. Dr. Ador Dionisio emphasized the importance of addressing external dependencies, stating, “Monitoring should include evaluation and strategy formulation to ensure the realization of targets.”
The SI Lasallian Formation team, led by Mr. Edwardson Juta of Center for Lasallian Ministry, showcased their accomplishments in student and associate formation programs. Modules for CSB Well, CSB Lead, and CSB Serve addressing well-being, leadership, and community service were completed, and formation passports for adult associates were introduced. Mr. Juta emphasized, “Formation is not about what we want to do; it is all about who we are in the community.” The team reported a mid-year accomplishment rate of 102.33%.
The SI Marketing team, presented by Mr. Marco Santiago of Benilde Marketing Center, outlined efforts to increase enrollment by 50% over two years. Initiatives included partnerships with international schools, career orientations, and open houses. Enrollment targets were set at 3,300 for frosh and transferees in Manila and 600 for Antipolo. Mr. Santiago stated, “Marketing is not the work of SI Marketing alone; it’s the work of everyone,” putting emphasis on the need for everyone to rally together to meet these targets. The team achieved a performance rate of 104.76%, the highest among all SIs.
The SI Digital Transformation team, represented by Mr. Randy Tandoc of Digital Transformation Office, provided updates on initiatives such as the Digital Transformation (DX) Charter, Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT), and the Benilde Innovation Framework. Workshops, research, and focus group discussions supported these goals, and the team reported a 100% accomplishment rate. Mr. Tandoc highlighted the importance of early preparation, noting, “Scheduling in advance is vital to the success of digital transformation initiatives.”
Finally, the SI Resource Management team, led by Mr. Diogenes Ungab of the Finance Office, discussed their objectives of generating non-traditional revenue, achieving cost savings, and expanding scholarship programs. Achievements included raising ₱12.2M through advancement programs and progress in renewable energy installations. Mr. Ungab shared, “Even small efforts, like availing of dorm services or supporting non-traditional revenue streams, contribute to the success of our objectives.”
During the Q&A session, SI leaders shared strategies for success and lessons from past performance. Ms. Puente emphasized the importance of regular assessments, saying, “Every month we check and see how to be better for the next.” Mr. Santiago noted improvements in documentation and monitoring, explaining, “Last year, we were lax in monitoring. This year, we made sure that all documents are in, we meet regularly, and collaborate effectively.” Mr. Juta highlighted the ease of implementing previously developed programs, stating, “This year, we’re implementing what we developed, which makes it easier to achieve our targets.” Mr. Tandoc added that a greater sense of ownership among team members contributed to their improved performance.
Ms. Ilagan summarized the mid-year achievements, reporting an accomplishment rate of 81.10% and recognizing the top-performing SITMs—Marketing, Lasallian Formation, and Digital Transformation—for exceeding their targets. Certificates of achievement were presented to these teams during the awards segment of the program.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Chancellor Benhur Ong, who expressed appreciation for the community’s efforts and emphasized the importance of continuous improvement. “The insights shared today reflect not only our achievements but also the challenges that push us to innovate and improve,” he said. Chancellor Ong introduced the “Free To Be” marketing campaign, officially launched across social media channels that evening. He encouraged the community to support the campaign, stating, “The work we do today shapes the future of Benilde, ensuring transformative experiences for our students, faculty, and stakeholders.”
New Program Offerings!
Benilde continuously innovates its academic programs to keep up with industry trends and emerging fields. Check out the new program offerings from Benilde’s School of New Media Arts and Benilde Antipolo
The Associates in Animation (AiA) Program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the essential processes of the animation pipeline. Through hands-on experience in industry-standard facilities and guidance from expert practitioners, the program immerses students in the technical and creative aspects of animation production. The mentor-apprentice approach, rooted in Benilde’s Learner-Centered educational philosophy, fosters practical skills, professional growth, and readiness for entry-level roles in the dynamic animation industry.
Benilde Antipolo:
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS)
The BS Information Systems (BSIS) Program includes the study of web and mobile applications and its effect on the information technology operations of organizations. Graduates of the program should be able to implement an information system, which considers complex technological and organizational factors affecting it. These include components, tools, techniques, strategies, methodologies, etc.
CEMSS Reinforces Fire Preparedness with Campus-Wide Drill
The Center for Emergency Management, Safety, and Security (CEMSS), in collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), successfully conducted a fire drill across all Benilde campuses on March 12, 2025, as part of Fire Prevention Month. With an unannounced evacuation, the drill tested the readiness of the Benildean community, ensuring that students, faculty, and staff responded effectively to fire alarms and emergency signals. Security personnel and Floor Marshals guided participants through the process, reinforcing proper safety protocols.
LOOK: Zumba Fest for International Women's Day
CSA's Safe Spaces Primer Announced
The Benilde Safe Spaces Primer is now available! Released by the Center for Social Action (CSA) on March 4, this essential guide provides the Benildean community with a clear, simplified understanding of Republic Act No. 11313: The Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law). Developed in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life (OVP-LMSL) and the Center for Restorative Discipline (CRD), the primer explains how the law applies within Benilde, outlining policies, reporting procedures, and key initiatives that foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment on campus.
A Seal Creativity with Benilde and Bostik
Bostik Philippines, through SMS Philippines Healthcare Solutions Inc., has generously sponsored P190,585 worth of adhesive products to the School of Environment and Design (SED)! This will be free to use by our talented SED students for their upcoming art and design projects.
Benilde Blazers Dominate NCAA Season 100 Tennis Championships
Congratulations to both the Benilde Lady Netters and the Blazing Netters for claiming victory in the NCAA Season 100 Tennis Championships! The Lady Netters showcased their skill, dedication, and unwavering spirit, while the Blazing Netters followed suit, securing the men’s championship just days later.
Led by Team Captain Kiana Louise De Asis, the Lady Netters—Alizee Danielle Sulivan, Czarina Claire Miraflor, Melody Francine Dizon, Amanda Gabrielle Zoleta, and Noeus Elna Beronio—proved what it means to be free to be their best on and off the court.
Meanwhile, the Blazing Netters, led by Team Captain Gian Carlo Macaraeg, alongside Marco Macalintal, Sherwin Villacorte, Andrew Gil Garcia Jr., Fern Alekzander Po, and Pete Andre Rodriguez, displayed unstoppable resilience and determination, proving their grit and determination.
Benilde Blazers Men's and Women's Volleyball Teams Secure Semifinal Spots in NCAA Season 100
Benilde Blazers Men’s and Women’s Volleyball Teams have clinched their spots in the semifinals after a strong showing in the Elimination Round of the NCAA Season 100. As of March 3, the Men’s Volleyball team holds an 8-1 record, while the Women’s Volleyball team stands at 7-2, holding their ground as top contenders.
Stay updated on the Blazers’ game schedules and show your support by watching them live or via streaming on NCAA’s Facebook Page.
Asiabasket Game Schedule
VS AdU
12:00NN April 5, 2025
VS LPU
3:00PM April 6, 2025
VS NU
9:00AM April 13, 2025
VS FEU
3:00PM April 22, 2025
VS UPHSD
3:00PM April 27, 2025
Benilde Preview: Unplugged
Upcoming schedule:
- School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies – April 12, 2025
Admissions Updates
Admission for the 1st Term of AY 2025-2026 is is extended until June 18, 2025.
Upcoming BEE online testing schedules for AY 2025-2026 applicants:
- April 26, 2025
- May 31, 2025
- June 28, 2025
In Case You Missed It
- Center for Social Action
- In collaboration with the Office of the Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life (OVP-LMSL) and the Center for Restorative Discipline (CRD), the Benilde CSA brings you the Safe Spaces Primer. This document aims to make information about the said law accessible and simplified for the Benildean community. Visit this link to access the file: https://bit.ly/benilde-safespace.
- Office of the Registrar
- For those who missed the Enlistment period, you still have a chance to do online enlistment/pre-enrollment on April 1 to 7. However, you must settle your pending clearances, such as the submission of the F-137/official transcript of records and payment dues.
- Center for Emergency Management, Safety, and Security
- Fire can happen unexpectedly, but simple precautions can help prevent them. Keep your home and community safe by following these essential fire safety tips: do not overload electrical outlets; unplug appliances and shut off LPG tanks when not in use; keep all flammable items out of children’s reach; stay attentive and remain in the kitchen while cooking; and maintain a clean environment to reduce fire risks.
- School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management – Vatel Restaurant
- Vatel Restaurant will now be serving blended coffee at the ground floor, the Atrium @Benilde.
- Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academics
- As part of our efforts to be an inclusive higher education institute, effective access to information and services must be provided to Benildean Deaf students and associates through quality and ethical sign language interpreting. In line with this, an approved updated interpreting service rate effective AY 2025-2026 are being implemented to reflect the evolving needs of our services while maintaining high standards of professionalism. You may refer to the official email announcement to check the revised rates, request process, administrative fees, cancellation policies, and grievance procedures. We encourage everyone to review these updates and incorporate them into their respective budget proposals for the upcoming academic year.
- Office of the Institutional Effectiveness and Research
- You may 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.
- 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
- Here’s the Finance Roadshow 2025 presentation materials for everyone’s reference.
- School of Professional and Continuing Education
- A summer of learning and growth this April 2025. Refer to the Program Calendar for the schedule of each module we are offering this year.
- Center for Learning Resources
- CLR is offering trial access to FilmBankMedia until April 12, 2025.
- Center for Lasallian Ministry
- As we journey through this sacred season of Lent, we invite you to join us for the Benilde Community Lenten Recollection: Foolish Hearts: Hope in the Cross on April 1, 2025, Tuesday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the 5/F Augusto Rosario-Gonzalez Theater, Taft Campus.
- Center for Institutional Communications
- Now that that we have launched the Free To Be campaign, we are pleased to share with you the Free To Be Style Guide | Brand Guidelines and Communications Kit. These resources were organized to help you properly apply the campaign in your own communication initiatives.
- Center for Student Life – Culture and Arts Unit
- This summer, blast off across the multiverse with new teams of artists in STAR Workshops 2025 and explore your potential in music, dance, theater, stage production, media, and visual arts. Happening on April 12 to June 21, 2025 (Every Saturday) at Benilde Taft Campus. Pre-register now using this link: https://bit.ly/4kyDWd8.
- Center for Student Life – Student Publications Unit
- The Benildean Press Corps (BPC), in collaboration with the Center for Campus Art (CCA), presents the exhibit for Shades of Gray: Solstice at the Greenway Square, Taft Campus from March 24 to June 21, 2025. Shades of Gray is the official literary folio of the students of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. In this year’s theme, Solstice invites you to remember where destinies converge and stories are forged within these turning points.
- Center for Admissions
- The CAd informs everyone that the admissions application for incoming Grade 11 (BSHS) and incoming first-year college students to De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) for the 1st Term of AY 2025-2026 began on October 15, 2024. In addition, the College is extending the Scholarship Application deadline until April 15, 2025. Benilde is dedicated to its mission of making Benildean-Lasallian education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. Through the Center for Admissions, Scholarships, and Grants, the institution offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities, including Academic, Merit, and Financial Assistance Grants, to support deserving learners.
- School of Environment and Design – Interior Design Program
- Donation for a Cause! Support #PagMayLiwagaMayLiwanag and help us brighten the future for persons with special needs of Hospicio de San Jose. Scan the QR CODES and we are also accepting donations through our donation links below: https://bit.ly/DonateToLiwaga, https://bit.ly/DonateToLiwaga, https://bit.ly/DonateToLiwaga.
- Center for Partnership Advancement
- The Benilde Alumni Technopreneur (BeAT) Awards returns for its third edition, recognizing trailblazing Benildean startup founders who are pushing boundaries, revolutionizing their fields, and making a lasting difference through technology and entrepreneurship. In collaboration with Benilde’s Hub of Innovation for Inclusion (HiFi), Center for Partnership Advancement (CPA), and Center for Intellectual Property Management (CIPM), we celebrate the visionaries, disruptors, and changemakers shaping the future. Know an exceptional Benildean technopreneur making waves in their industry? Nominate them now!
- Office of the Vice President for Administration
- As an inclusive and innovative learning institution, the Innovation Office is committed to fostering a culture that empowers our community to generate creative solutions, driving continuous improvement and development within Benilde. To achieve this, the SI Digital Transformation team is working towards the establishment of a Benilde Innovation Framework—a collective effort that will shape the future of innovation within our institution. To ensure that this framework reflects the diverse insights, experiences, and perspectives of our community, we invite all administrators, associates, and students to participate in the Benilde Innovation Survey. The survey will be available from March 24 to April 4, 2025, and may be accessed through this link.
- We are excited to invite you to participate in the Innovation Workshop, a special event focused on fostering creativity, innovation, and collaboration. This workshop is part of OVPA’s pioneering initiatives aimed at shaping a better Benilde. It is open to all Benildean associates who are passionate about driving innovation. Join us this year and be the change—stand out and make a difference!
- School of Arts, Culture, and Performance – Theater Arts Program
- Benilde’s SACP – THA Program and Aninag Theater invites everyone to watch “All’s Well That Ends Well” which will be held on 4 & 7 April 2025: 5:00 PM | 5/F Design+Arts Campus Theater; 5 & 12 April 2025: 1:00 PM | 5/F Design+Arts Campus Theater; 8, 10 & 11 April 2025: 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM | 5/F Design+Arts Campus Theater.
- Benilde’s SACP – THA Program and WID(e)YE Collective presents “Fermata” which will be held on 4 April 2025: 6:00 PM | 6/F Black Box, Design+Arts Campus; 5 & 12 April 2025: 1:00 PM | 6/F Blackbox, Design+Arts Campus; 7, 8 & 10 April 2025: 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM | 6/F Blackbox, Design+Arts Campus; 11 April 2025 (Gala Show) 6:00 PM | 6/F Blackbox, Design+Arts Campus.
Upcoming Events
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