Benguet State University’s Business Affairs Office (BSU-UBA) celebrated its first-ever summit with the theme, “Collaborate, Celebrate, Participate: Towards Business Affairs’ Success.” The event was held on November 4-8, 2024 at the BSU Marketing Grounds.

VP for Business Affairs Norma P. Banania opened the summit by thanking all the participants.

Jeftee Ben Pinos-an, Manager of the Marketing Center, highlighted that the summit is to let all participants engage with each other not only the seven Income Generating Projects (IGPs) but also with UBA’s various partners.

Pinos-an added that the sector is working in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly on the industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9) and on responsible production and consumption (SDG 12). He hoped that the UBA Summit would thrive and improve in the years to come.

Next, BSU President Felipe Salaing Comila inspired everyone with his advocacy of entrepreneurship and encouraged the attendees to surround themselves with fellow entrepreneurs. He also shared that entrepreneurship is the language of advanced countries.

Following Comila’s message, Elmer Macalingay, the guest speaker of the event emphasized the importance of collaboration in business. He added that while many people prefer to work alone, collaborating with others will help maximize talents and skills.

Macalingay also spoke about the business Chinese concept of 关系 (guānxì), which embodies the spirit of collaboration and connection through trust, reciprocity, and mutual support. He further discussed how guānxì allows business people to operate on trust. He observed that this principle is present in local communities, particularly in the eastern part of Sagada, where collaboration is practiced.

He also emphasized the importance of embracing the principles of ub-ubo and bayanihan. He stated that collaboration makes us stronger, more resilient, and capable of achieving remarkable outcomes not just for ourselves but also for the communities.

Allan C. Sacpa, VP for Administration and Finance, stated in his remarks that the business sector is essential to funding and managing operating costs of the University.

Sacpa also expressed gratitude to the sector for planning the summit and pursuing ISO standards to improve quality control and refine processes.

Following the program, a seminar took place at the College of Home Economics and Technology (CHET) Function Hall, focusing on several key topics needed for professional development. The sessions covered Financial Literacy, Excellent Customer Service, Orientation on Food Safety, Orientation on Good Manufacturing Practices, and Basic Records Management.

After the seminar, an awarding ceremony was held to recognize the outstanding service awardees. The event also featured a discussion between UBA staff and stakeholders that allowed valuable insights and feedback to be heard.

Concluding the event, Banania urged everyone to strive for excellence,  maintain a positive and enthusiastic work attitude, and practice respect and discipline. The event ended with a raffle draw and an exchange of gifts among the IGP staff.//BTayaban