Calendar of Events

The State of Our Nation (SOONA) can be seen as a form of reverse pitch. Instead of students or startups pitching their ideas, it is the experts, practitioners, and communities who are “pitching” the problems, opportunities, and urgent issues they face.

Students then get to respond—by shaping their thesis, projects, or research around these real-world needs.

SOONA brings together six speakers across six topics on two floors of HiFi, in a three-hour reverse pitch that ends with a shared panel and an open mic where students take the stage.

This session explores the shift from a creative industry to a creative economy and why it matters now. Guided by Benilde’s Hub of Innovation for Inclusion (HIFI), a Technology Business Incubator for the creative sector, the talk examines the systems, policies, and markets needed to turn passion into scalable, sustainable enterprises.

Highlighting both challenges and opportunities, it underscores HIFI’s mission to embed entrepreneurship in creative practice, equipping students, innovators, and makers to build an ecosystem where creativity drives economic growth.

HIFI’s final culmination in celebration of PCIM for homegrown maverick talents from the Music Production Program—where bold sounds and fresh ideas take the spotlight.

Through intimate performances, interactive showcases, and collaborative activities, the Benildean community is invited to experience the spirit of innovation and artistry that defines HIFI. More than a social gathering, it celebrates creativity as a catalyst for connection, exploration, and new ventures.

As part of Philippine Creative Industries Month, the Benilde Makers Market showcases the creativity and quality of student projects while highlighting their value within the academic community. The event serves as a platform for quick market testing, mentorship, and industry validation, while also fostering networking opportunities for partnerships and potential investments.

Curated in partnership with the Center for Intellectual Property Management, it aims to empower students and alumni to scale their projects and contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

This talk reframes student capstones as launchpads for real-world ventures. Rooted in Benilde HIFI’s mission, it equips students with the mindset, tools, and support to move their ideas beyond the classroom. The session addresses common challenges like lack of confidence, funding, and clear direction, showing how HIFI’s programs and mentorship can bridge those gaps.

It’s a call to action for the Benildean community to visit HIFI and transform bold ideas into viable businesses.

The ‘Meet the Trailblazers’ of REVERIUM 2025 sets the stage with the unveiling of the HIFI mural, opening the Startups Exhibit, and the Incubation Agreement Signing—a milestone partnership with new cohorts committed to scaling Filipino ingenuity.

Together, these moments mark the beginning of a celebration that honors trailblazers and sparks the path toward a thriving creative ecosystem.

The Malikhaing Pinoy Expo 2025 is a five-day exposition showcasing the diverse and dynamic Philippine creative industries. Held from September 3-7, 2025, 10:00 AM to 08:00 PM, at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura, Bonifacio Global City, the event is a flagship initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council.

UP Asian Center will hold the 1st Tenugui hand dyed cloth exhibit in Southeast Asia. The exhibit showcases how the tenugui is a reflection of Japanese culture.

Each tapestry unravels a facet of their life from famous locales, religious festivals, martial arts, theater, communities and local customs. This exhibit is curated by tenugui specialist Jan Vincent Sarabia Ong of J Travel Finds. He created the first Filipino tenugui with Hocus Manila and Nakani Dyeing Factory in Sakai, Osaka. As such, a part of this program will include how the Filipino tenugui was made into reality. The last section will place a spotlight on Japonisme artists. They are Filipino artists who use Japanese arts as a medium of expression for their work and to foster friendship between the two nations.

On August 20 (Wednesday), there will be an in-depth talk by the curator Mr.Ong at 1 PM. This discussion will provide further insight on the design process for the Filipino tenugui. See you there!

Into The Woods*, based on James Lapine’s book, sees 18 main characters amidst a fantastical and elaborate backdrop that captures the public’s imagination. Considered a dark comedy, the plot intertwines several fairy tale (Cinderella, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack of Jack and the Beanstalk, etc.) characters’ exploits tied together by a childless baker and his wife who set off on a journey to break a witch’s curse preventing the couple from having a child. What ensues is a magical visual and audio spectacle that dramatically portrays the impact and consequences of specific choices and actions.