22 October 2026
The Benguet State University Business Affairs (UBA) Office held the 2nd UBA Partners’ Convergence titled Taripnong 2026 with the theme, “Partnerships and Innovations: Transforming Income-Generating Projects into Model Green Enterprise.”
The event is part of the first UBA festival and was attended by Special Projects & Partnerships (SPP) partners who are tenants of BSU Stalls and Rental Areas. Partner agencies from the Social Security Services and PLDT also joined to offer their services to the attendees.
In his opening remarks, Director for SPP Conrado C. Bao-idang welcomed the internal and external stakeholders of the university including university officials, representatives from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of La Trinidad, barangay officials, and business partners, emphasizing the university’s mandate to go beyond the classroom and collaborate with the community.
Bao-idang noted that the Taripnong serves as a call for collaborative synchronization among all stakeholders to ensure the university’s self-reliance and community growth through productive and meaningful cooperation
Following the opening message, Pollution Control Office Head Allan C. Sacpa discussed the topic on green enterprises encouraging all university partners, lessees such as strawberry and souvenir stall owners, administrative officials, and local communities to adopt green operating standards, and proper waste segregation.
University President Kenneth A. Laruan then updated the community on the university’s operations, highlighting its continuous growth across its undergraduate and graduate programs. He explained that accommodating thousands of students requires ongoing improvements to facilities and services, pointing out that revenue from the UBA sector plays a vital role in supporting BSU’s operations, research initiatives, and personnel salaries.
The La Trinidad Office of the Municipal Mayor was represented by Vice Mayor Guiller A. Galwan and Councilor Tyrone T. Diaz, who both shared inspiring messages.
Hon. Galwan thanked BSU for its collaborative partnership between the LGU. He encouraged the local business owners and residents to innovate and elevate their business practices such as improving agricultural products and adopting good agricultural practices to increase income, support families, and achieve independence.
Meanwhile, Hon. Diaz highlighted how crucial BSU’s research, data, and technical assistance enable the LGU to formulate, sign, and implement more effective local policies and community programs. He also noted that since La Trinidad is a major tourist destination due to its weather, business owners should take advantage of this opportunity by setting up and modernizing local businesses, urging them to move beyond traditional setups to embrace innovative, green model enterprises that can compete effectively and uplift local livelihoods.
After the messages, an open forum took place where proposals, requests, concerns, and suggestions from the different areas were raised.
Prior to the program, members of the Property Lease Committee (PLEASECOM) held a brief alignment meeting to discuss concerns and ensure consistent responses to matters that may be raised by community partners
To conclude, Strawberry Farm Backfill Vendors Association President Veronica Buya thanked the BSU for their continuous support, patience in addressing concerns, and collaboration, emphasizing that their group remains always ready to help.//DPaydowan|PGadang