By Mikee Natinga Norico
Congratulations CPU Malunggay French Toast team! With passion, innovation, and determination, the team is ready to represent CPU on the international stage as they continue their journey to the L’Oréal Brandstorm 2025 International Finals in Paris, France.
A team from Central Philippine University (CPU), Malunggay French Toast, secured a spot in the Top 6 of L’Oréal Brandstorm Philippines 2025. The team now moves one step closer to the International Finals in Paris, France, marking a historic milestone for the university.
Composed of Jeff Andre Millan (BS Software Engineering – 3), Dianne Lois Senegocio (BS Psychology – 3), and Kiara Beatriz Bonifacio (BS Biology – 2), Malunggay French Toast is the first team from CPU to reach the national finals of the prestigious business innovation competition.
Recalling the moment they learned about their achievement, Millan shared, “When I first heard the news, I was completely in disbelief. I had been anxiously waiting for the Top 6 announcement, which was supposed to be on March 31, so I was casually scrolling through my newsfeed on March 29. To my surprise, I saw the L’Oréal Group’s post revealing the results two days earlier than expected. I was in the council office with my fellow officers, and I immediately reached out to Dianne and Kiara to share the exciting news.”
The team name, Malunggay French Toast, came about during their first meeting at Tely’s. “It wasn’t our first choice. Our ‘TOTGA’ name was ‘Eros for Men’s Beauty,’ but we decided to go for a more unique take. Malunggay French Toast is, in our belief, a perfect blend of two delicacies—French toast, symbolizing our goal of reaching Paris, and the Philippines’ malunggay pandesal, representing our roots,” Senegocio explained.
Despite their diverse academic backgrounds, the team has found strength in their differences. “We value the diversity of our academic fields, which allows us to divide responsibilities effectively. Some of us focus on research and public speaking, while others bring creative design and fresh ideas to the table. What makes us unique is our collaboration and ability to adapt. We have learned that by working together, being open to each other’s input, and adapting when needed, we can overcome challenges more effectively,” Millan shared.
Senegocio emphasized the importance of teamwork in their success. “One thing we pride ourselves on is how our strengths complement each other. We make up for what each other lacks and play off our strengths. The most valuable lesson we’ve learned is to always think as a team. Our varied opinions can sometimes clash, but in those moments, we refocus on our goal and prioritize what’s best for the product rather than personal preferences.”
Bonifacio encouraged fellow Centralians to take on challenges like L’Oréal Brandstorm. “Centralians are passionate, innovative, and entrepreneurial. Don’t be afraid to start, even if your idea isn’t perfect at first. What truly matters is your willingness to seek better answers, embrace innovation, and refine your ideas through constant learning. Hard work will never fail you—trust in the process, and success will follow.”
Bonifacio also highlighted the support they received from CPU. “CPU has long been a home to students with strong entrepreneurial spirits. This isn’t just due to our skills but also the unwavering support of the university—through initiatives like CPUGAD TBI, mentorship programs, and organization-led projects that prepare us for the entrepreneurial world. We strive to represent CPU in the best way possible, not just for ourselves but to help place our university on the map of major industries like L’Oréal. With passion, innovation, and determination, we can showcase what Centralians are truly capable of.”
With their spot secured in the Top 6, Malunggay French Toast is now preparing for the next stage of the competition. As they continue their journey, CPU stands behind them, cheering for their success and looking forward to seeing them bring pride to the university on the international stage.