The Benildean Star

09/07/2025

𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐆 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐫𝐠 𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐞 𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

Candidates running for the Benilde Antipolo Student Government (BASG) and professional organizations took the spotlight during the first-ever student campaign and Meeting de Avance, July 8, at the Benilde Antipolo Lobby. They presented their platforms and advocacies ahead of the 2025 Student Elections.

This collaborative event of the Office of Student Involvement (OSI), the Commission on Selection (COMSELEC), and the Lasallian Mission and Student Life (LMSL), marked a shift toward participatory student leadership.

To introduce this year’s election process, candidates from both BASG and the professional organizations were grouped into two alliances for the first time: Team GREEN and WHITE or Alyansa Para sa Liwanag at Layunin. This unified party system allowed student leaders across different units to align under shared goals and advocacies. During the Meeting de Avance, representatives from both sides participated in a moderated question-and-answer segment led by Arvin Cabuay of the Commission on Selection (COMSELEC) and Fedrick Buenaventura of the Office for Social Action (OSA). This setup marked a significant shift from the traditional appointment system, placing student participation and accountability at the forefront.

During the program, BASG candidates took center stage as the two opposing partylists engaged in an exchange of platforms and responses. The Sinag Partylist, led by presidential candidate Francesca Suarez, includes the following attendees:

• Chansey Olivo for Vice President of Internal Affairs
• Camille Monique Luares for Vice President of External Affairs
• Lamhlet Dominguez for Vice President for Finance
• Mary Dorothy Bendaña for Vice President of Operations

On the other hand, the Alyansa Para Sa Liwanag at Layunin Partylist, headed by Angelique Serrano, was joined by the following attendees:

• Jeremi Francisco for Vice President of Operations
• Lorenzo Lazaro for Secretary

Alongside the BASG slates, five out of seven professional organizations also introduced their respective candidates. These included the Benilde Antipolo Junior Marketing Association (BAJMA), Benilde Communications Guild (COMMGUILD), Psychology Society (PSYCHSOC), Tourism Professionals in Progress (TPP), and the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA). However, the Benilde Antipolo Hospitality Management Society (HMSOC) and Educere were unable to present candidates during the event. Participants were asked how they would serve the student body while upholding the values of Benildean Expressions.

As the campaign period concludes, the 2025 Student Elections are set to take place from July 9 to 11, between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM at the Benilde Antipolo Lobby. The conduct of the Meeting de Avance set the stage for a more informed and participatory voting process, as Benildeans prepare to elect the next set of student leaders. With platforms laid out and advocacies made clear, the community now awaits the results with anticipation, hopeful for a new generation of leadership rooted in service, vision, and purpose.

Words by Reign Ysabelle Carlos, Ven Diaz Sales, and Rich Rojen Miranda
Photos by AJ Rumbaua

08/07/2025

𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 | 𝐒𝐆 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐞 𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

As part of the first-ever Benilde Antipolo Student Campaign and Elections, the Meeting de Avance is held at the Benilde Antipolo Lobby this morning, July 8.

Aspiring Student Government President Angelique Serrano of the White Partylist and Francesca Suarez of the Green Partylist each presented and discussed their platforms aiming to benefit the Benildean community in the following academic year.

For more updates on the election and voting process, stay tuned to official communication channels.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions of the candidates do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of The Benildean Star and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, Antipolo. All information released is in compliance with the journalism ethics and practices.

Words by Reign Carlos
Layout by Elaine Mendoza
Photo by AJ Rumbaua

07/07/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | A back-to-back event of creativity and talent is unveiling in Benilde Antipolo as Frosh Night 2025: Ignite the Night is now set on July 11 at Benilde Antipolo Gymnasium.

This event provides an enjoyable night as various organizations showcase their extraordinary talents.

Registration is now open. Further announcements will be announced soon.

Frosh Night 2025 is here to Ignite the Night! 🌟🔥

Step into a night of blazing energy, unforgettable memories, and a spark that starts your college journey.

Your spark starts here—tap to register!
https://forms.gle/mUZpAvdWLfZpSso78

07/07/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | The spotlight is on! Balik Tanaw: Step Into the Spotlight has officially revealed its powerhouse lineup of hosts and performers set to ignite the stage this July 18 at the campus gymnasium.

With tickets now available for only ₱250, Benildeans, non-Benildeans, and alumni are all invited to dance the night away with electrifying performances, dynamic hosts, and unforgettable moments.

07/07/2025

Share what matters. 🗣️

Expose the truth. Spark a conversation. Start the change. Send us your tips and leads — and be part of the story.

Layout by Althea Damsel

05/07/2025

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | 𝐁𝐀𝐖𝐂 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

The Benilde Antipolo Well-being Center (BAWC) hosted a Family Mental Health Parents seminar today, July 5, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Held at Benilde Hall, this initiative focused on fostering emotional awareness and strengthening family relationships through mental health education.

Resource speaker Mrs. Ma. Loida Faye Borbon, RGC, a registered guidance counselor from La Salle Greenhills, led the seminar, outlining the World Health Organization’s key mental health indicators and addressing the social and emotional challenges students face post-pandemic.

Parents reflected on their hopes for their children and learned practical ways to support their growth at home through positive communication, emotional regulation, and routine-building.

Activities designed to improve listening skills and identify love languages emphasized the importance of empathy in parenting. The seminar is part of BAWC’s ongoing commitment to student wellness and holistic development.

Words by Chamberlain Cornejo
Photos by Rae Vincent Hedacan

05/07/2025

𝐖𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 | 𝐑𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐝𝐲 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐝𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐇𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐭

As of 5:00 PM today, the Office of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (ORPDRRMO) announced weather updates across various areas within Rizal province.

The current Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) overcasts Rizal with cloudy skies and light to moderate rain showers. This weather situation is expected to continue over the next three hours, possibly affecting nearby areas.

Stay safe and dry, Benildeans!

SOURCE: ORPDRRMO on Nina Ynares page

Words by Reign Carlos
Layout by Rich Miranda

05/07/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊 | In partnership with the School of Arts, Culture, and Performance (SACP), Benilde Antipolo is set to roll out Benilde Arts Unite — an exciting workshop series in Dance, Music, Theater Arts, and Production Design open to students and young creatives.

Slated for July 19, July 26, August 2, and August 9, 2025, the outreach program promises a vibrant, hands-on learning experience capped with a culminating showcase. With registration now open, slots are expected to fill fast for this dynamic celebration of artistry, collaboration, and self-expression.

04/07/2025

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | 𝐏𝐑𝐒𝐏 𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐏𝐑 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐞 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐨’𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) rolls out today the third leg of its PR Caravan at the Benilde Hall of Benilde Antipolo. PRess Start, a seminar made possible through the joint efforts of PRSP, BSBA-Marketing Management Department, Communication Department, The Benildean Star, Benilde Communications Guild, and Benilde Antipolo Junior Marketing Association (BAJMA), aimed to spark informed discussions to gain public insights on the significance of PR.

Hosted by Jade Del Rosario and Rico Macatangay, the event started with a dance number from A’Blaze Dance Crew.

Mr. Norman A. Agatep, APR, Vice President - External of PRSP and Chairman and CEO of Grupo Agatep, opened the event with an inspiring message. Mr. Agatep then discussed “PR Beyond the University Walls”, tackling career opportunities in PR, the skills set needed, taking advantage of industry trends, and tips in standing out in the PR field. He stressed the importance of using PR to create lasting relationships with stakeholders.

In the second talk, “PR in Various Settings” Mr. Ed U. Timbungco, APR, described how PR is used in different sectors from religious institutions to live streaming platforms. He pointed out that PR manages reputation to help achieve organizational goals, tells the brand story through engaging conversations with stakeholders, and nurtures mutually beneficial relationships with stakeholders. He ended the talk with an impactful reminder that “every decision, no matter how small, can impact one’s reputation," hence the need to effectively and responsibly use PR.

Mr. Steve Michael M. Moore Jr, MA, CMP, PRSP director and chairman of the PR Students Congress shared his insights about “Brand Building for Student Organizations.” He shared his experiences as moderator of the creative and events management team, Tomcat, of the University of Santo Tomas. “Remember to focus on who you are, what you can do, and why it matters,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of a strongly defined vision, purpose, and passion in catering to the clients’ needs through one’s own skills and creativity.

The event continued with a panel discussion moderated by Velinda Avrylee Abellon. The three earlier speakers were joined by Franz de la Fuente, PRSP Corporate Secretary, and Angelene Buenaventura of Media Meter to respond to the attendees' questions. The topics ranged from the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and analytics to crisis management and dealing with negative sentiments.

Several booths by BAJMA, COMMGUILD, and LEAD were also displayed and enjoyed by the participants outside the venue.

Words by Eddlyan Talla and Kevin Christian Cruz
Photos by AJ Rumbaua, Laila Navarro, and Adam Yujin Rana

03/07/2025

𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 | 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬

One day, I am gonna grow wings. This is not the divine kind sung about in psalms, nor the natural lift of feathered creatures, but wings of needless thread and ruin bound together with trembling hands in a dim-lit room. This is the melody of my incantation in despair, recited a million times in the muscle of transformation I’m facing at in the mirror.

I stand before my reflection with a needle in hand, its eye threaded with desperation. With my back raw flowing, open, and trembling under the weight of an unfinished dream. The wings I’ve woven hang loosely at my sides — not flightworthy, not even convincing, just illusions shaped from scraps.

Still, I pierce my skin to wear them.

Blood streaks down my chest, carving rivulets through the fragile architecture of my ribs. It stings, with pain of reality, but I do not stop. Pain, here, is not an alarm — it is a language, a necessity, and a bitter form of becoming. With each stitch lies a silent admission: the more I reach for something I am not, I only become someone I cannot.

In the glass, I watch myself fabricate beauty from agony. The dreaded eyes staring back does not cry out, but tears cling stubbornly to its jaw, silent and unresolved. Behind these eyes, the world is blurred — nothing exists but its existence, the mirror, and this terrible attempt at transformation.

These wings are not wings, but metaphors that the grief reshaped and the longing repurposed. These wings are the very manifestation of a failed attempt and shameless imperfection. They sag beneath the weight of what they were never meant to carry: my longing to be anything else. I have so imagined flight so vividly that I forgot what walking ever meant.

What I want is neither life nor death — both too final, too named. What I want is flight, the gesture of it, the illusion of upwardness. I want to feel unburdened, even if only for a breath, even if the wings tear the moment I move.

Truly, I will never be the creature I imagine nor will ever be light itself. I will never be someone’s beloved, holy and whole. But I could make a religion out of how sunlight filters through leaves. I could weep for that kind of beauty — not because I possess it, but because I believe in it, even if only as an observer.

The mirror watches me. Unblinking. Unforgiving. It records the quiet collapse: the trembling, the half-made wings, the blood pooling beneath me like shadow. And I remain human. That is the worst part of all — that even after everything, I am still me.

Still flawed.
Still faking.
Still here.

I am not flying — I am fraying.

But even as the thread slips from the needle, even as my hands falter, I whisper it again:
𝘮𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘧𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴.

Words by Daffney Nudalo
Illustration by Angel Beatrice Bautista

03/07/2025

It’s almost time to PRess Start!

Tomorrow, we will play.
Tomorrow, we shine.
Tomorrow, the mission begins.

One more sleep ‘til we step onto the comms battlefield — a place where every idea is a move, every strategy a weapon, and every insight a new unlock. 🔓

We don’t just show up — we activate. It’s your time to power through, connect with the best in the field, and walk out with more than XP: a vision, a voice, and a vault of PR wisdom. Gear up, listen close, and take notes — your next power-up starts here.

PRess Start happens tomorrow, July 4, 2025 (Friday), from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Benilde Hall.

02/07/2025

PRess Start: Meet Your Event Hosts and Panel Moderator

Only two days to go before PRess Start officially kicks off — and it’s time to introduce the key figures guiding you through the day.

Event Hosts:
📌 Jade Junielle Del Rosario
📌 Enrico Luis Macatangay
With their energy and presence, they’ll be leading the charge to keep the program smooth, engaging, and on point.

Panel Moderator
📌 Velinda Avrylee Abellon
She’ll be steering the conversation during the panel discussion, drawing out insights and strategies from our seasoned speakers.

You’ve met the Game Masters — now meet the voices who will guide you through the experience. Get ready for a day of learning, inspiration, and strategic storytelling.

PRess Start happens this Friday, July 4, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Benilde Hall, Benilde Antipolo.

Follow The Benildean Star, Benilde Communications Guild, BAJMA, and PRSP on Facebook for more updates.