Dr. Antonio S. Yap, founder and Chairman of the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, encouraged Centralians to pursue excellence in their endeavours.

The Central Philippine University College of Business and Accountancy, in partnership with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, held a seminar entitled “Understanding Social Development: CSR-Based Social Entrepreneurship” at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on September 11, 2018.

The opening prayer was led by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office of Communications. It was then followed by the singing of the National Anthem conducted by Mrs. Crista S. Huyong, Director, CPU Cultural Affairs Office.

For the welcome remarks, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, CPU Vice President for Administration and Finance, shared the strong bond of the university with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation: “It is a blessing that we are partnering with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation in the conduct of the social enterprise campus tour. The foundation espouses not only CSR [corporate social responsibility], but more importantly, personal social responsibility. Our society needs students, graduates, professionals, and citizens with a true understanding of what our responsibility is.”

Dr. Antonio S. Yap, founder and Chairman of the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, thanked CPU for the warm welcome. He also inspired the participants to celebrate life through a perspective of faith by pursuing to do what is good: “We believe that every single one of you matters—whatever we are, we have a chance to do good.”

Ms. Marian Bartolome, Communication Officer, talked about the background and awards programs of BCYF.

The seminar showcased a talk from Mr. John Michael P. Lava, Ayala Young Leader and Head of the Visayas and Mindanao Operations of Deloitte. He shared about the Deloitte CSR Youth Awards. Lava also highlighted the importance of CSR and he recognized the university’s help in the promotion of CSR.

The talk was followed by a panel interview, consisting of innovative leaders from the community and all over the country. The members of the panel shared their ideas and their grassroots application of CSR as a medium of changing communities.

The event was made possible through the earnest efforts of the program committee led by Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean, College of Business and Accountancy.