by Marga L. Taganas, CPA & Jhoana H. Guinoo, LPT
The College of Business Administration (CBA) of Baguio Central University (BCU) convened its stakeholders for a roundtable discussion on August 20, 2026, with the theme “Strengthening Stakeholders’ Engagement for Responsive, Innovative & Industry-Aligned Business Education.” Originally planned as a hybrid event, the activity was conducted entirely online via Zoom from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon due to the suspension of face-to-face classes brought about by inclement weather.
The roundtable brought together CBA faculty members, students, parents and guardians, alumni, industry and community partners, and members of the BCU administration. It aimed to provide a venue for meaningful dialogue, feedback, and collaboration toward continuously improving the college’s programs and initiatives.
Following the invocation and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and BCU Hymn, the program was formally opened through the welcome remarks of Dr. Elma D. Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs. This was followed by the presentation of the purpose and objectives of the roundtable discussion.
The college then showcased a video presentation highlighting its accomplishments and activities for Academic Year 2025–2026. Ms. Paula P. Falisong, a BSBA faculty member, further discussed the highlights of these activities, emphasizing the various initiatives undertaken by the college throughout the academic year. Looking ahead, Dr. Cherrie Mae M. Manuel, CBA Dean, presented the college’s Calendar of Activities for School Year 2026–2027. The calendar included programs and activities designed not only for students but also for faculty members and the college’s various partners, reflecting CBA’s commitment to fostering a collaborative academic community.
As part of the college’s research dissemination efforts, Dr. Jolly B. Mariacos, CBA Extension Coordinator, presented the results of a needs assessment research conducted in partner barangay Loacan, Itogon. The presentation provided stakeholders with insights into community needs that may help guide the college’s future extension initiatives and partnerships.
The highlight of the event was the stakeholders’ roundtable discussion, moderated by Dr. Shamany L. Lokines, BSPA Program Coordinator, and Ms. Marga L. Taganas, BSBA Program Coordinator.
Representing the university administration, Dr. Michael T. Sebullen, Vice President for Administration and Director for Research, acknowledged the limitations in financial resources while commending the college for its resourcefulness and the leadership of its dean. He emphasized that the success of CBA’s activities was made possible through the collective support of the stakeholders and expressed the administration’s appreciation for their contributions in addressing the college’s needs. He likewise assured the college of the administration’s support for its various endeavors.
Meanwhile, Dr. Donaal expressed her appreciation for CBA’s initiative in bringing its stakeholders together for an open discussion. She noted that the initiative could serve as an example for other colleges within the university. Addressing parents and guardians who expressed their desire to participate in college activities, she assured them of the value of their involvement in initiatives that benefit their children. She also expressed gratitude to the students for placing their trust in BCU by choosing the university for their education.
From the industry sector, Ms. Jan Louise Villalon of Junior Achievement Philippines (JA Philippines) shared positive feedback on the college’s programs and activities. She emphasized that JA Philippines could further assist in preparing students for the workforce. She identified student proactiveness and responsiveness as among the challenges encountered by the organization, which were addressed through continuous communication, updates, and follow-ups. Ms. Louise also encouraged more students to participate in the certifications offered through the partnership, noting the growing challenges graduates face in securing employment. She stressed that industry-recognized certifications can provide students with an additional advantage and help make them more industry-ready.
CBA alumni also shared their experiences and recommendations, with Ms. Angel Alamar, currently an Office Clerk at BCU’s Research and Development Center, commending the college’s growth and the faculty and staff’s continued efforts to improve the quality, organization, and variety of its activities. Drawing from her experience as a student, she shared that the programs helped develop her skills and confidence and encouraged the college to sustain its positive progress. Meanwhile, Mr. Terrance Darryl Bryan Marquez, currently an instructor at Apayao State College, recommended strengthening industry exposure, internships, and career development programs. Both alumni expressed their willingness to support the college beyond donations and extension activities, including through mentorship opportunities for current students.
Parents and guardians were also invited to provide suggestions on how the college could improve communication and keep them informed about its activities. One parent of a freshman suggested inviting parents and guardians to meetings or incorporating them into student orientations. Another guardian expressed appreciation for the activities being offered by CBA and hoped that the college would continue developing programs that benefit, encourage, and inspire students. She also shared that she regularly follows the college’s official Facebook page, where she sees updates about its activities. The discussion also provided an opportunity for the dean to clarify that student participation in some activities may entail corresponding costs. She cited micro-credential programs as an example, explaining that students may need to pay reasonable fees to participate in such programs.
Student representatives likewise emphasized the importance of active student participation. Ms. Jonalyn Geronimo, CBA-SGO Governor for Academic Year 2026–2027, highlighted that student involvement is essential to the success of college activities. Based on her experience as a student leader, she noted that the activities organized by CBA provide opportunities not only for learning but also for developing confidence, teamwork, skills, and meaningful connections. Similar sentiments were shared by Ms. Aira Escarlan, an officer and BCU representative for the JPMAP National, and Ms. Lovely Grace Basilang, BCU-JPMAP President. They encouraged students to maximize the opportunities made available through the college’s partnerships with industry and professional organizations.
Another significant segment of the program was the presentation of micro-credential opportunities offered through the partnership with Junior Achievement Philippines. Representatives presented the RMP, RBP, and ESP micro-credentials, which are available to qualified students and alumni. The presentation gave participants an opportunity to learn more about the certifications and how these could contribute to students’ preparation for employment. Questions and clarifications from participants were also entertained before the segment concluded.
At the end of the roundtable, Mr. Argie Q. Aquino, a CBA faculty member, presented a synthesis of the recommendations and agreements generated during the discussion. The synthesis highlighted the stakeholders’ shared commitment to strengthening communication, student participation, industry exposure, career preparation, alumni involvement, and community engagement.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Manuel thanked all participants for their time, insights, and continued support for the College of Business Administration. She assured the stakeholders that their feedback and recommendations were duly noted and would serve as valuable inputs in the college’s continuing efforts to improve its programs and initiatives.
The roundtable discussion underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among the academe, industry, community, alumni, parents, students, and university administration. Through open dialogue and shared responsibility, CBA continues to strengthen its commitment to providing responsive, innovative, and industry-aligned business education.