Benilde unveiled the FREE TO BE campaign with its launch at the Design and Arts (D+A) Campus lobby on March 20. Dubbed as “Benilde's newest expression of its character, identity, and aspirations,” the campaign launch celebrated the individuality and inclusion that the College is known for.
The event was not limited to DAC, as booths were scattered across campuses. Through speakers, student performances, and interactive booths, the campaign launch not only highlighted the innovative, high quality education of the school, but how it serves as a space for students to explore who they are—that in Benilde, they are free to be.
The freedom to be
What exactly does it mean to be free here in Benilde? With FREE TO BE highlighting the students and not just the College itself, it extends beyond the students’ freedom to pursue the course they want—Benildeans are free to express who they are and follow their passions.
Brother President Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC kicked off the event with an inspiring opening speech. He shared the story of Deaf leader Romulo V. Porral III, who had a commencement address at the 1st Term A.Y. 2024-2025 graduation ceremony on March 8.
“We had a graduation speaker who was a Deaf student. At Benilde, he was free to be himself, to learn in his own way, to express his ideas without judgment, and to shape his path with confidence [...] This story is a true reflection of what it means to be free, free to be, empowering individuals to embrace their identity, overcome obstacles, and to thrive in his own terms,” he ended.
The event also featured performances from the Benilde Culture and Arts Unit (BCAU)---featuring an electrifying dance number of the Saint Benilde Romancon Dance Company and two song performances from the members of Coro San Benildo.
Interactive booths highlighted the message of the campaign. It had its very own freedom wall where students wrote on post-it notes, finishing the sentence “I am free to be” with their own personal experiences. Upon completion, they would be given a free button pin with the word “Free to be like no other.” Aside from this, there was a photobooth and free ice cream, providing additional activities and delicious snacks for the students.
Inclusion as a strength
“Today's event is more than just unveiling a campaign. It is a celebration of what makes our Benildean community strong, and that is our commitment to diversity. We stand as a community that believes everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, to grow, and to thrive in an empowering environment like no other,” Br. Fernandez said as he closed his speech.
The FREE TO BE campaign encapsulates what sets the College apart from others. It’s not just facilities or quality of education; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels included and safe to be themselves.
