NDMU Opens CBAligyaanay 2025: A Showcase of Marist Innovation and Sustainability

Notre Dame of Marbel University’s (NDMU) College of Business, Governance, and Accountancy opened its annual CBAligyaanay on October 6, 2025, at the Mall of Ace Centerpoint. With the theme “Marist Student Entrepreneurs: Shaping a Sustainable World through Innovation,” the celebration calls on students to transform creative ideas into sustainable solutions for the future.

A Ceremony of Purpose

The opening was highlighted by the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which signaled the start of CBAligyaanay 2025 and opened opportunities for the 31 participating businesses to present their products. In her message, Dean Michelle F. Capistrano, CPA, DBMIS, underscored that true learning extends beyond the classroom and finds its fullest expression when applied in real-world experiences like this event. Hon. Eina Jumilla-Pama, City Councilor, encouraged students to take bold steps as entrepreneurs and use their creativity to strengthen local communities. Representing the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) South Cotabato, Ms. Ria Hallarsis, Senior Trade Industry Development Specialist, affirmed the potential of student ventures and inspired participants to continue developing their products into meaningful enterprises.

Partnerships that Empower

The success of CBAligyaanay 2025 was made possible through the support of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) South Cotabato and the City Government of Koronadal. Their collaboration ensures that the event is not only a student showcase but also a bridge between academic learning and industry practice. By standing alongside Marist entrepreneurs, these partners affirm a shared commitment to fostering innovation, inclusive growth, and responsible enterprise.

Sustaining the Spirit of Innovation

Running from October 6 to 10, CBAligyaanay 2025 provides students with an extended platform to demonstrate their creativity, test their ideas, and integrate sustainability into business practice. The event also reflects the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—as it promotes hands-on learning, supports youth entrepreneurship, and highlights the role of partnerships in advancing innovation. Through this annual celebration,

NDMU strengthens its mission to form graduates who create enterprises that bring value not only to themselves but also to the wider community and the environment.