To our esteemed donor and alumnus Mr. Ramon R. Del Rosario and family, PHINMA Corp., our very supportive University President Br. President Bernard Oca, DLSU’s top management, RVR COB administrators, Mr. Edgar O. Chua, Chairman, Makati Business Club, and DLSP; Director, PHINMA Corporation, Sec. Jose Rene D. Almendras, President of the Management Association of the Philippines, and esteemed business leaders, Dr. Victor C. Manabat, President of the Philippine Association of Collegiate Schools of Business and business school leaders, academicians, student leaders, Ladies and gentlemen, Good afternoon.
Welcome to the launch event of the PHINMA-DLSU Center for Business and Society. Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey for our college as we embark on a mission to champion Business as a Force for Good. We have advocated societal impact since 2012 through our affiliation with UNPRME, which aims “to transform management education and develop the responsible decision-makers of tomorrow to advance sustainable development.”
As we gather here, we do so with a profound sense of purpose. We aim not merely to establish another Center but to cultivate a mindset shift in business and education. We envision a future where businesses are not solely profit-driven entities but agents of positive change, deeply ingrained in the fabric of society. We focus on implementing strategic measures that firmly establish the center as a leader in promoting Business as a Force for Good.
Allow me to provide an overview of our strategic framework, which forms the backbone of our endeavors:
Firstly, through curriculum development, we aim to equip future business leaders with the necessary tools to navigate the complex landscape of social responsibility, ethics, and sustainability. Integrating these principles into business education lays the foundation for a generation of leaders committed to making a meaningful difference. We will develop and distribute teaching materials and case studies to business schools nationwide. These resources are intended to facilitate the incorporation of social responsibility, ethics, and sustainability into business curricula, aligning with modern educational needs.
Secondly, research and advocacy lie at the heart of our mission. Through rigorous research that aims for implementation via extension activities and engaging advocacy efforts, we seek to amplify the voices advocating for Business as a Force for Good. We strive to spark meaningful conversations and drive tangible action towards a more inclusive and sustainable business environment. The center plans to publish research papers and host forums to advocate for Business as a Force for Good. By organizing annual conferences and case competitions, we aim to foster a dialogue on humanistic management and social entrepreneurship, addressing current trends and challenges.
Thirdly, showcasing best practices serves as a beacon of inspiration for local and global businesses. By highlighting successful cases of businesses making a positive social impact, we aim to foster a culture of responsible business practices and encourage emulation among our students as future leaders. A significant part of our strategy involves researching businesses globally that have made a positive social impact. We will highlight these cases to inspire local businesses to undertake similar initiatives, promoting a culture of responsible business practices.
Fourthly, leadership development is paramount in driving systemic change. We are committed to identifying and nurturing leaders who champion inclusive and sustainable practices, thus creating a ripple effect across industries. Recognizing the importance of leadership, we will identify and support business leaders committed to inclusive and sustainable practices. We aim to build a network of advocates for Business as a Force for Good through recognition programs and leadership development initiatives.
Fifthly, building partnerships is essential for amplifying our impact. Collaboration with local and international organizations, such as the Asian Institute of Management RVR Center and the Ramon Magsaysay Awards Foundation, is crucial. These partnerships will help us leverage resources and expertise, enhancing the center’s impact.
Sixthly, sustainable funding is crucial for the longevity of our initiatives. We intend to pursue various funding avenues through joint research initiatives, faculty exchange programs, and executive education, ensuring long-term operations and impact.
Finally, we aim to spearhead a National Action Plan to mobilize stakeholders from across sectors to create a roadmap for fostering a business environment that prioritizes social impact alongside economic growth. This plan will involve collaboration across multiple sectors to promote a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable business environment in the Philippines.
In closing, I extend a heartfelt invitation to all business schools and organizations nationwide to join us in this transformative journey. Together, we can shape a future where Business as a Force for Good is not just an aspiration but a reality.
Thank you, Sir Ramon and PHINMA, for considering DLSU RVR COB as your partner. With the clear targets given to us, we will ensure that every peso spent will achieve our objective of making Business a Force for Good. Let us work together to create a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
Thank you.
Dr. Sarreal is the Dean of the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business (RVRCOB), De La Salle University. She delivered this welcome address during the launch of the PHINMA DLSU Center for Business and Society. It is a new Center, to be housed in DLSU’s RVRCOB, that seeks to advance Business a Force for Good. She can be reached at [email protected].
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.