The College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) at the University of Northern Philippines launched a series of environmental and financial literacy initiatives, empowering communities and promoting sustainability. Through various programs, CBAA faculty and students demonstrated their commitment to responsible stewardship, holding workshops and spearheading coastal clean-up activities in key locations across Ilocos Sur on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

The Organization of Business Administration Students (OBAS), led by its Adviser Mr. Jhoninno A. Serdenia and Governor Mr. Marvil T. Cortez, hosted a seminar focusing on investment strategies, teamwork, empathy in the modern world, and entrepreneurial skills. The event aimed to equip students and participants with valuable knowledge to thrive in today’s competitive business environment at Pudoc, San Vicente, Ilocos Sur.

Following the seminar, OBAS spearheaded a coastal clean-up drive, with active participation from both the organization’s officers and faculty members of the college, including Mr. Reymart Regua, Ms. Romelyn Remular, Ms. Arlette Dian Real, Mr. Marvin Keith Sosa, Mr. John Wilbert Madriaga, Ms. Marie Lou Mejares, and Ms. Joedethe Rabara. Their combined efforts demonstrated a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and community service.

The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Financial Management (BSBA-FM) program, through its student organization, the Junior Bankers’ Association (JBA), led a financial literacy training workshop in Pantay Fatima, Vigan City.

Guided by key faculty members, including Dr. Ace A. Ferrer (program head), Dr. Nathalie P. Almero (Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs), and core faculty members Ms. Jonah Via C. Pecho, Ms. Michelle M. Pacpaco, Mr. Engelbert Casimiro, Ms. Katherine A. Rabbon, Dr. Ana Leah A. Alconis, Ms. Via H. Leal, and Mr. Heiyan Von P. Lappay, the JBA focused on equipping community members with essential financial management skills.

Meanwhile, the Bachelor of Science in Cooperative Management (BSCM) program, through its Cooperative Management Students’ Organization (CMSO), engaged in environmental stewardship activities in San Sebastian, San Vicente.

The students planted trees and led a coastal clean-up, working hand-in-hand with local residents to foster a culture of environmental responsibility. This outreach was organized by program head Dr. Melvin S. Laureta, with support from Dr. Eileen Rose Q. Paculan (extension coordinator), Dr. Shareen A. Navarro, Ms. Illah Diva R. Faypon, Mr. Michael Anthony B. Agustin, Mr. Joshua D. Puller, and Mr. Ralph Buccat, core faculty members of the program.

Simultaneously, the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA) program, under the leadership of program head Ms. Mary Ann R. dela Cruz, conducted a seminar on Financial Accountability and Transparent Governance in Manueva, Santa, Ilocos Sur. Faculty members Mr. Kelvin Charls A. Abella, Mr. Mark Louie P. Battad, Mr. Mac Kerwin P. Lim, Mr. Geofed John M. Ngayaan, Mr. Jayson R. Rapisura, Mr. Roberto E. Regala, and Ms. Joy Eulalia V. Ugale also played a key role in ensuring the success of this activity.

The CBAA’s collaborative efforts were met with overwhelming gratitude from the communities involved, who expressed their appreciation for the programs. Local leaders highlighted the positive impact of these initiatives, affirming their commitment to continue working with the CBAA in future sustainability efforts.

Article by Emman Trevor A. Quilala.