By Mikee Natinga Norico
College of Business and Accountancy Governor Monica Centena, Representative Jericho Paglinawan, and Board Members of the College of Business and Accountancy Provincial Council officially opened the Bentahan Fair with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the start of a dynamic three-day event celebrating student entrepreneurship and innovation at CPU.
In a bid to empower young entrepreneurs and foster a culture of innovation, the Central Philippine University-College of Business and Accountancy (CPU-CBA) Student Council successfully hosted the “Bentahan Fair: Cultivating Business Minds” at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park from March 11 to 13. The event provided students with a platform to apply their entrepreneurial skills while engaging in a competitive and dynamic marketplace. The fair served as a testament to CPU-CBA’s commitment to experiential learning, business development, and student empowerment.
The Bentahan Fair commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:30 AM, following the completion of student business setups. The event was graced by the presence of the College of Business and Accountancy Provincial Council, including Governor Monica Centena, Representative Jericho Paglinawan, and Board Members Stephany Buyoc, Micah Tormon, Beatrice Lozada, and Paul Genaca. Business owners and student entrepreneurs were also in attendance, marking the beginning of an exciting three-day fair.
During an exclusive interview, the CPU-CBA Student Council shared the inspiration behind organizing the Bentahan Fair. “As business students, it is always a question of how we can expand our horizons beyond the four walls of a classroom. The Bentahan Fair serves as a platform that allows students to apply what they have learned from our professors in a real-world setting. More than that, it helps student entrepreneurs promote their businesses and showcase their products. The more we foster a culture of entrepreneurship in our esteemed university, the more we empower and inspire others to innovate and create opportunities for themselves,” the council representatives stated.
Innovative Minds in Action: The fair brought together student entrepreneurs showcasing products from perfumes and trendy clothing to healthy food options and handcrafted jewelry, reflecting the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit at CPU.
The council further emphasized that the event aligns with its mission to promote student empowerment, entrepreneurial growth, and practical learning experiences. “Through this initiative, we provide a marketplace where students can develop their business skills, engage with the community, and enhance their leadership and financial literacy,” they added.
What made this year’s Bentahan Fair special was its distinction as the first-ever independent event fully organized and executed by the CBA Student Council without external management. The council took pride in crafting an event that prioritized student entrepreneurs, offering them an exclusive space to market their businesses and apply their business acumen. “This event is for students, by students. It reflects the entrepreneurial spirit we aim to cultivate within CBA. By giving student businesses an avenue to thrive, we are not only supporting existing ventures but also inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs to take their first steps in the business world,” they shared.
The success of the event was made possible by the unwavering dedication of student business owners, alongside generous support from sponsors. Gold sponsors included Falsis Rice Milling Corporation, Metal Core Fitness Gym, and Café 9:04. Silver sponsors, including Sharetea Iloilo, Iloilo Central Shoe Emporium, Inc., Condo Ilonggo, and Mampay Bakeshop, also played a crucial role in the event’s success. Among the businesses featured in the fair were Memoré Fragrances, which sold perfumes and fragrances; Closet for Me and Swish’, which offered trendy clothing; and YES Enterprise, which specialized in accessories, candles, and healthy food options. Other student-run businesses showcased their talents in crochet-making, handcrafted jewelry, and unique apparel.
Governor Monica Centena expressed her pride and appreciation for everyone involved in the event. “The CBA Bentahan Fair was more than just a marketplace—it was a dynamic platform where our students brought their entrepreneurial visions to life. Seeing their passion, creativity, and business acumen in action was truly inspiring. The fair allowed them to manage risks, adapt strategies, and build confidence while fostering teamwork and innovation. I commend all our participants for their dedication and creativity, which made the fair an exciting and engaging experience. I extend my deepest gratitude to our CBA Faculty, Department Heads, Council Advisers, and our ever-supportive College Dean, as well as our Provincial Board Members led by Event In-Charge BM Stephany Buyoc. Your hard work behind the scenes was invaluable in making this fair a success. To everyone who supported the event—our sponsors, customers, judges, and guests—your encouragement and participation have given life to this initiative. The success of the CBA Bentahan Fair is a testament to what we can achieve when we dream big, take risks, and put our skills to the test. To all CBA students—this is just the beginning. The business world is waiting for you, and I have no doubt that you will make your mark. Congratulations to everyone! VAMOS CBA!”
With the overwhelming success of the Bentahan Fair, the CPU-CBA Student Council continues to pave the way for aspiring entrepreneurs, setting a strong foundation for future business leaders. The fair not only fostered innovation and business acumen but also strengthened the entrepreneurial spirit within the university community.