The Benilde Interior Design Exhibit (INTDXHI) hosted their media launch and turnover ceremony on April 22 at Bahay Pag-asa Dasmariñas, located at the De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) campus. The ceremony titled “SIGLA: May Kislap sa Sigla ng Pag-asa” focused on showcasing the new and improved facilities for their beneficiary, with the aim of providing spaces that support focus and growth to the youth of Bahay Pag-asa.
SIGLA is the fifth project that INTDXHI focused on this term, drawing inspiration from the children in conflict with the law (CICL) that resides in Bahay Pag-asa. Providing new spaces for learning and growth will enhance their lives, with the updated bakery room which introduced new workstations and materials to help develop the children’s interest and skills in baking. Meanwhile, the recreational room includes a study lounge, recording booth, lounge area, music hall, and even a barber space for their grooming needs.
Drafting it out
Project manager Rojan Abyr Loyola Baculi, an ID122 student from the Interior Design (BS-InD) program, stated that the journey to get to the final stage of SIGLA was constrained by time, having a limited budget at the beginning also posed challenges until they held events to cover their expenses. When The Benildean asked if they got to meet the children beforehand, Baculi shared that they did. He added, “To know what their needs are, what they need in a space, and that when the space is made, it feels like home.”
In only four months of preparation, the SIGLA team ensured that everything would be ready just in time for the turnover ceremony. Baculi explained that despite their ups and downs, they made sure that everything aligned with their mission as a whole team which was to create a space for Bahay Pag-asa.
The foundations
The program started with opening remarks from Benilde Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life, Ms. Nicky Templo Perez, on behalf of Benilde President Br. Edmundo Fernandez FSC. She honored the Interior Design program, highlighting how the students realized their full potential by immersing themselves in these communities, gaining a deeper understanding and creating meaningful impact in everyday lives.
As transformation begins in small powerful ways, she said, “SIGLA reminds us that even the smallest spark or kislap can ignite transformation.”
Meanwhile, School of Environment and Design (SED) Dean, Ar. Harvey Vasquez, also shared an inspirational message. He expressed how design and innovation shape hope, and that even a small spark can create light, adding that design isn’t just about appearances but also about dignity—wherein environments are created to make people feel safe, respected, and valued.
After the opening remarks and inspirational messages, the project introduction and design presentation unveiled the layouts of the bakery room and recreational room, showing its new features to Bahay Pag-asa. It was then followed by the ribbon cutting and unveiling of the markers that highlighted the SIGLA team and a photo opportunity that included all attendees was also held. Chief Lasallian Mission Officer, Mr. Ritchie C. Bongcaron, delivered his acceptance speech before the Director of Bahay Pag-asa, Ms. Rosario Pareja, who led the awarding of certificates.
Before the program ended, The Youth of Bahay Pag-asa prepared a special music performance. They serenaded the audience and expressed their gratitude through a piano performance, a flute solo, and a group song that shared the values of Bahay Pag-asa.
A new path
The beneficiary, Bahay Pag-asa, was assigned by the Benilde Center for Faculty Advancement (CFAd) Service-Learning Unit. Although the project was a requirement for BS-InD students to culminate their college journey, for those involved, it became an opportunity to create with the intention of uplifting.
“Maybe they would be more motivated and be more engaging with the spaces that they have, because the spaces that we built also for them are to enhance their skills,” Baculi shared. The newly renovated areas were carefully designed to cater to the children after the students were given the opportunity to get to know them more. With a more organized kitchen and a colorful function hall, this batch of BS-InD students hope to spark a change in their hearts.
SIGLA had created a positive impact for both parties—by pushing for change and offering second chances.
