SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) actively contributes to the development and promotion of local arts and culture through public performances, theatrical productions, dance showcases, musical recitals, and collaborative artistic initiatives. Through its School of Arts, Culture, and Performance, Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) and various academic programs, the College provides opportunities for students, faculty, alumni, and creative practitioners to showcase their artistic talents while fostering cultural appreciation and community engagement.
These initiatives encompass a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including contemporary and classical dance, theater, live music, musical ensembles, and interdisciplinary performances. Through programs such as the Bachelor of Performing Arts Major in Dance (BPAD), Music Production (MP), and Theater Arts (THA), Benilde supports artistic expression, cultural dialogue, and the development of emerging Filipino performers. Regular performance series, student-led productions, and collaborative showcases also contribute to the vibrancy of the local creative community.
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), particularly Target 11.4 on safeguarding cultural and natural heritage, these initiatives demonstrate Benilde’s commitment to sustaining local artistic traditions, supporting contemporary creative practices, and strengthening public engagement with the performing arts.
The following consolidated activities and productions highlight Benilde’s contributions to local arts and culture, including performances, showcases, recitals, and artistic collaborations documented during Academic Year 2024–2025 and other reporting periods.
School of Arts, Culture, and Performance | De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde
Bachelor of Performing Arts Major in Dance (BPAD) | School of Arts, Culture, and Performance
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde promotes local arts and culture through dance performances, creative productions, and artistic collaborations organized by its Bachelor of Performing Arts Major in Dance (BPAD) program. These initiatives showcase Filipino talent, encourage cultural expression, and strengthen community engagement, supporting SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The following activities highlight the program’s contributions to local performing arts and cultural development.
Philippine Dance Cup
The Philippine Dance Cup, the country’s first and only national ensemble and solo dance championship, returns to De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) to showcase exceptional Filipino contemporary and classical dancers.
Canvas: BPAD in Motion
The show will feature the Dance Majors’ hard work and journey this term.
BEYOND ELEMENTS: BPAD in Motion
The show is a coming into fruition of the dance majors’ journey during this term.
Facebook Post | The Benildean Article
RE-CLAIM: BPAD-ETEEAP Performance
RE-CLAIM is a performance project that traces, interrogates, and reclaims the Filipino body from dominant colonial, political, and creative institutions that molded and packaged it for commercial consumption. The project received support from Goethe-Institute Indonesian and Philippines as part of the Reflekt and Performance Ecologies post-residency project.
BORDERS: BPAD in Motion
BORDERS: BPAD in Motion features powerful new works by BPAD Majors in collaboration with HA.MÜ.
Echoes: Moving Beyond the Current (121)
ECHOES presents an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary. It offers a glimpse into the journey, the work, and the heart behind the production of dance and choreography by Mica Gillego and Janz Pondoc.
Alimuom sa Takip-Silim (122)
Isang makabuluhang paglalakbay sa gitna ng walang katapusang rebolusyon — tunghayan ang mga naratibo ng pang-aapi at kawalang-katarungan sa mundong pinaiikot ng mga propaganda. Inihahandog ng Unfolding Productions, mula sa Bachelor of Performing Arts Major in Dance ng De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, ang “Alimuom sa Takip-Silim.”
Like an Anthem in My Heart
“Like an Anthem in My Heart” features excerpts from timeless musicals that will be performed by INTROMPU BPDA1 students in collaboration with the Music Production Program.
Creative Industries Management Projects and Artistic Initiatives
Bachelor of Arts in Creative Industries Management (ABCIM) | School of Arts, Culture, and Performance
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde supports local arts and culture through creative projects and artistic initiatives undertaken by its Bachelor of Arts in Creative Industries Management (ABCIM) program. These initiatives promote artistic expression, cultural appreciation, and community engagement, contributing to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The following projects highlight the program’s contributions to the local creative and cultural community during Academic Year 2024–2025.
Pagdalo(y)
PAGDALO(Y), a thesis show by Niña De Castro of AB-AM, invites you to witness improvisational contemporary dance beyond the usual stage.
Music Performances and Recitals
Bachelor of Arts in Music Production (AB-MP) | School of Arts, Culture, and Performance
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde promotes local arts and culture through musical performances, student recitals, ensemble showcases, and collaborative productions organized by its Bachelor of Arts in Music Production (AB-MP) program. These initiatives provide opportunities for artistic expression, talent development, and community engagement, supporting SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The following activities highlight the program’s contributions to the local performing arts during Academic Year 2024–2025.
Acoustic Wednesday – International Music Day Celebration
October 2, 2024 | MP
Acoustic Wednesday marked the opening of the first term of AY 2025–2026 at the Design and Arts Campus Lobby, coinciding with the celebration of International Music Day. The event featured performances by students from Prof. Ghira Casille’s CHORUS class, including Emiko, Xyvrl, Trichsie, Zyren, Zeke, and Miguel Camesa. Audio support was provided by the Live Sound Engineers Guild (LSEG), a member organization of the Music Production Program’s Music and Audio Society (MPMAS).
Music Friday – Ensemble Performance Showcase
October 11, 2024 | MP
On October 11, the Ensemble Classes of Prof. Ronald Tomas presented their performance exam as part of the Music Fridays series at the D+AC Blackbox. The showcase featured student musicians and vocalists performing the works they had developed throughout the term. Audio support for the event was provided by the SOUNTEC Class under Prof. Daniel Monong, who assisted with sound setup and production as part of their practical examination.
Acoustic Wednesday – Student Band Performances
October 16, 2024 | MP
On October 16, Acoustic Wednesday was held at the D+AC Lobby, featuring performances by MP students Super Secret Band ni Junior, Sam Niverba, Monique and the Moons, Axcelle, Jireh, Riinas, and Robin Rivera. The event also served as an examination activity for the SOUNTEC and APPMUS classes.
Rhythmic Symphony
October 28–30, 2024 | MP
Rhythmic Symphony was listed among the Music Production Program’s performance activities for October 2024.
Acoustic Wednesday – Live Sound Production Showcase
October 30, 2024 | MP
The event served as an examination activity for the SOUNTEC class, providing students with the opportunity to apply their sound engineering and production skills in a live event setting.
Benildean Idol
November 6, 2024 | MP
Benildean Idol was included among the Music Production Program’s November 2024 activities. Further details of the event were not provided.
Music Friday – Live Music at the D+AC Cafeteria
November 8, 2024 | MP
On November 8, Music Fridays was held at the D+AC Cafeteria, featuring performances by Fitterkarma, Clayd, and the Rising Serenaders. The event showcased a variety of musical styles and provided audiences with an afternoon of live entertainment.
Music Production Recital Series
December 9–14, 2024 | MP
The Music Production Program is excited to announce its upcoming Recitals, scheduled from December 5-13, 2024. This series of performances will showcase the incredible talent of our students as they demonstrate the skills they have acquired during the first term of the academic year. Each recital will provide an intimate platform for students to present their original compositions, remix projects, and collaborative works.
Acoustic Wednesday – Open Musical Participation
February 5, 2025 | MP
This installment features the in-house talent of Eros Gonzales but the spotlight doesn’t stop there! Whether a seasoned singer or a first-time songbird, everyone is invited to participate and share their musical gifts.
Music Friday – Valentine’s Day Edition
February 14, 2025 | MP
A special Valentine’s edition of Music Fridays was held at the D+AC Cafeteria, featuring performances by K, Tonio, and Fuji from 12:05 PM to 2:20 PM. The event provided a festive musical backdrop for the celebration of Valentine’s Day, bringing together members of the community through live music and shared experiences.
Acoustic Wednesday – Student and Volunteer Performances
February 19, 2025 | MP
On February 19, Acoustic Wednesday was held at the D+AC Lobby, featuring performances by MP students DR3N and Ronric. The event also included performances by volunteer students, highlighting the musical talents and community engagement of the participants.
Music Friday – Electronic and Ensemble Performances
February 28, 2025 | MP
On February 28, Music Fridays was held at the D+AC Cafeteria, featuring performances by Wax.Wav and the MP Ensemble Classes of Prof. Ronald Tomas. The event showcased a mix of electronic music and ensemble performances, highlighting the creativity and musical talents of the Benildean community.
Acoustic Wednesday – Emerging Student Artists
March 5, 2025 | MP
This edition of Acoustic Wednesday featured performances by Gael, Lynne, Yohan, Lihla, Shannen, Sean, Laruh, and Reb Mendez. The event provided a platform for student artists to showcase their talents and contributed to a vibrant musical atmosphere within the D+AC community.
Music Friday – Student Music Showcase
March 14, 2025 | MP
On March 14, Music Fridays was held at the D+AC Cafeteria, featuring performances by MP students as part of the program’s ongoing live music series. The event transformed the cafeteria into a vibrant performance space and showcased the musical talents of the student community.
Acoustic Wednesday – Midweek Musical Showcase
March 19, 2025 | MP
The perfect midweek escape, this Acoustic Wednesday features the talents of Joaquin De Leon, Kristen Lichauco, JM Reyes, Ryan Sales, Jujstine Pastorpide, Nep Gonzalez III, Jai Carlos, Drew Delgado, Ice Gazmin, KR Cipres, and Gabe Parafina.
Music Friday – Second-Term Finale
March 28, 2025 | MP
On March 28, the final Music Fridays event of the second term was held at the D+AC Cafeteria, featuring performances by MP students FUJI, Miko, 3PM Anxiety, Nathan the Pogi, Nextone, Keen, Zach and Frienzz, Monique and the Moons, and Noj Laurel. The event celebrated student talent through an afternoon of live music and performances.
Acoustic Wednesday – Second-Term Finale
April 2, 2025 | MP
The final Acoustic Wednesday of the second term on April 2 from 12:05 to 1:45 p.m. at the Design and Arts Campus Lobby, featuring performances by talented MP students including Janelle Rayne, Albē, JMR, Pascale, MYPP, Lucilo Nolledo, Anton Tierro, Lihla Turla, Addy & Aila, and Hans Papa.
Music Production Class Recital Series
April 21–26, 2025 | MP
The recital season showcased performances and creative works from students in various group and individual classes, highlighting the skills and knowledge they developed throughout the term. The event also featured presentations by two ETEEAP students completing the Performance Cluster of their program.
Rhythmic Symphony – Live Performance and Ensemble Launch
June 26, 2025 | MP
Rhythmic Symphony marked the launch of the Electric Guitar Ensemble and Laptop Ensemble. The event featured performances by the Vocal Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, Kyla Lim and Jasmin Panizales—1st and 2nd prize winners of the 2024 Music Singapore International Competition—as well as Prof. JM Javato, Nel, The Catwalkers, and members of the MP faculty, student body, and alumni community.
Music Production End-Term Class Recitals
August 11–19, 2025 | MP
The Music Production Program held its end-term recital and creative projects showcase from August 11 to 19 at the Blackbox Theater of the Design and Arts Campus. The event featured student recitals, original compositions, sound design projects, and live performances, highlighting the artistic and technical achievements of Music Production students.
Theater Arts Productions
Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts (BA-THA) | School of Arts, Culture, and Performance
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde promotes local arts and culture through theatrical performances, student-led productions, and creative collaborations organized by its Theater Arts program. These initiatives foster artistic expression, cultural awareness, and community engagement while addressing social and contemporary issues, supporting SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The following productions highlight the program’s contributions to local theater, performing arts, and cultural development during Academic Year 2024–2025.
May Isang Alamat – Aninag Theatre
May Isang Alamat is a production staged by Aninag Theatre, presenting the one-act play written by award-winning playwright Layeta Bucoy. Directed by Joshua Lim So and co-directed by Heleynah Galan, the production tells the story of Batang Walang Silbi, a girl who stands up against Pinuno, a tyrannical leader living in a post-apocalyptic society created by human greed and selfishness. The production focuses on the issues of environment, politics, and society, showing the effects of apathy and humanity lost in the struggle for survival.
Hinga – Kulay ng Buhay ni Ysa Productions
HINGA is a thesis movement piece that reveals the reality of Major Depressive Disorder among young adults.
Ang Goldfish ni Prof. Dimaandal – Hala Theater
Eljay Castro Deldoc’s play Ang Goldfish ni Prof. Dimaandal is a satirical drama that is produced by the Hala Theater Company as part of the Theater Arts Program of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. It is directed by Mikaella Yoj Sanchez. The story follows an ongoing investigation involving cranky science teacher Prof. Dimaandal, in pursuit of justice over her beloved pet goldfish which was allegedly murdered by three students. The production looks at power relations and weaknesses of the education system.
Fermata – Wid(e)ye Collective
Fermata by Wideeye Collective is a Filipino one-act play set in a small jazz bar in Manila, where two old friends, Ben and Alex, confront painful memories surrounding Ben’s late father, a celebrated musician accused of sexually abusing his students. Through their conversation, the play explores trauma, guilt, memory, masculinity, silence, and the difficult process of confronting the past and choosing whether to hold on or let go.
All’s Well That Ends Well – Aninag Theatre
“All’s Well That Ends Well” is an adaptation of the Shakespearean play by Aninag Theatre. The play revolves around Helena, a girl from a lower class, trying to marry Bertram, the son of Count of Roussillon, even though he doesn’t want anything to do with her. The production explores class distinctions, gender roles, power dynamics, and the complexities of human relationships.
Ang Balyena – Aninag Theatre
Ang Balyena is an original theatrical production by Aninag Theatre. Written by Jay Crisostomo VI and directed by Joy Delos Santos, with co-direction by Andrea Resurreccion, the production follows Jonah, a celebrated swimming coach whose unresolved past resurfaces as the story shifts between his present life and his experiences as a young swimmer in 2008. The production explores male sexual-assault survivorship, trauma, and toxic Filipino masculinity, through the recurring imagery of the whale and the sea.
Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD)
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde promotes local arts and culture through exhibitions, public programs, and creative initiatives organized by its Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD). These initiatives support Filipino artists, encourage cultural appreciation, and foster community engagement, contributing to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
The following activities highlight MCAD’s contributions to artistic development, cultural preservation, and public engagement.
MCAD Benilde Travel Bursary
The MCAD Benilde Travel Bursary is identified as an additional arts-related initiative of the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design. Further information on its activities and relationship to public performing arts is available through the museum’s news page.
These documented initiatives illustrate Benilde’s continued engagement in local performing arts and creative production. For THE Impact Rankings SDG 11 reporting, the activities provide a foundation for demonstrating the College’s contribution to cultural participation, artistic development, and the enrichment of local communities through dance, music, and theater.
