Innovation and inclusion. Two overwhelming words that must be embodied as we campaign for a more sustainable future. This is not a mere battlecry. It is a way of life at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

Though the college is uncommonly regarded as one of the more expensive in the country, a quarter of its students are scholars — with hopes to steadily increase this esteemed cluster of deserving students.

As we forge ahead, the college earnestly continues to push the boundaries of what an institution may be able to do for the community.

For instance, let me share my personal experiences.

The fashion design program does not end with just stylish, trendy and sophisticated dresses and gowns. They likewise promote sustainable non-fast-fashion pieces, and even advocates for the standard sizing which benefits individuals of short stature. They haven't even forgotten the often-neglected Filipino Little People.

The industrial design teams have championed responsive products that aid those with mobility disabilities and for the use during extraordinary situations such as floods. Meanwhile, the budding interior designers have progressively renovated schools, libraries, hallways and special education centers that cater to the Deaf.

Moving a little closer to its own neighboring barangays, outreach projects have been nonstop through the years. For instance, affordable but nutritious recipes collected in cookbooks have been distributed. They even offered assistance to kick off their very own gardens to further reinforce the benefits of the Pinggang Pinoy program.