SDG 17 – Advancing Sustainable Development Through Cross-Sectoral Dialogue and Partnerships
De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde actively promotes the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through local and international conferences, policy dialogues, and collaborative initiatives involving government agencies, academic institutions, and nongovernmental organizations.
Through its School of Diplomacy and Governance (SDG), Benilde facilitates discussions on diplomacy, governance, climate action, regional security, and sustainable development. Complementing these efforts, Benilde’s Center for Education and Advancement of the Deaf (CEAD) advances inclusive education through Filipino Sign Language (FSL) documentation and advocacy, supported by CBM Global Inclusion.
The following activities highlight Benilde’s commitment to strengthening cross-sectoral partnerships, knowledge exchange, and collective action toward achieving the SDGs.
Strengthening Deaf Education Through Filipino Sign Language Research and Advocacy
Benilde’s Center for Education and Advancement of the Deaf (CEAD), with support from CBM Global Inclusion, led an initiative documenting Filipino Sign Language (FSL) variations within the Filipino Deaf community. The collaboration supports the development of appropriate learning resources, strengthens inclusive K–12 education, and promotes evidence-based educational advocacy.
Source: Benilde CEAD – Sharing Filipino Sign Language Evidence
Strengthening ASEAN Cooperation Through Regional Security Dialogue
June 24–26, 2024
Benilde participated in the 2nd China-ASEAN Defense Think Tank Exchanges in Guangzhou, China, bringing together government defense officials, military researchers, and academic scholars to discuss regional security and cooperation. Assistant Professor Edwin Estrada represented Benilde and presented research on China-ASEAN partnerships.
Strengthening Philippines–South Korea Diplomatic Relations
June 5, 2024
Through the SDG Ambassadors’ Lecture Series, Benilde welcomed South Korean Ambassador H.E. Lee Sang-hwa to discuss 75 years of bilateral relations, diplomatic cooperation, and shared development priorities.
Promoting Good Governance Through International Diplomacy
August 7, 2024
Benilde launched its Diplomacy x Governance Lecture Series featuring Canadian Ambassador H.E. David Hartman and DILG-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes Agustin, fostering dialogue on international relations, public administration, and sustainable governance.
Advancing Maritime Security Through Policy Dialogue
August 22, 2024
Benilde’s School of Diplomacy and Governance organized a National Security Council brainstorming session addressing South China Sea issues, bringing together academic and government representatives to exchange perspectives on maritime security and national policy.
Strengthening Philippines–Japan Cooperation for Peace and Security
December 4, 2024
Benilde hosted Japanese Ambassador H.E. Endo Kazuya for a special lecture highlighting the importance of Philippines–Japan cooperation in promoting regional peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Deepening Malaysia–Philippines Cooperation
December 5, 2024
Benilde participated in a conference commemorating 60 years of Malaysia–Philippines relations, exploring regional partnerships, economic cooperation, and shared development challenges.
Advancing Climate Action Through Cultural Diplomacy
December 10, 2024
Benilde students participated in a Department of Foreign Affairs forum featuring Senator Loren Legarda, bringing together government, academic, and environmental organizations to discuss cultural diplomacy, climate action, and sustainable foreign policy.
Strengthening Climate Policy Partnerships
January 20, 2025
Benilde’s School of Diplomacy and Governance initiated discussions with the Climate Change Commission to strengthen institutional partnerships and promote awareness of climate adaptation policies and sustainable development initiatives.
Mobilizing Partnerships for the 2030 Agenda
January 30, 2025
Benilde launched the SDG for SDGs Campaign, convening representatives from government, academia, nongovernmental organizations, and youth groups to strengthen collaboration and collective action toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Promoting Maritime Governance and Regional Stability
July 31, 2025
Benilde students and faculty participated in the 9th Anniversary of the South China Sea Arbitral Award conference, engaging government officials and policy experts in discussions on maritime governance, international law, regional stability, and marine conservation.
