Written by Sheryl Joy Baltong and Ethany Andan | Photographed by Prince Mac Anderson
The School of Business Administration and Accountancy (SBAA), together with its student organizations—the School of Business Student Body (SB), Junior Association of Marketing Executives (JAME), Junior Executive Circle (JEC), Junior Financial Executives (JFINEX), and Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA)—held the VIPPD Livelihood and Promotional Outreach on September 25, 2025, at the University of Baguio Centennial Hall. The program partnered with the Visually Impaired Positive and Progressive Dreamers (VIPPD) to provide livelihood and promotional opportunities for persons with visual impairment.
The initiative strongly contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By providing members of VIPPD with opportunities to offer massage services and sell handmade foot rugs, the program supported decent and productive livelihood opportunities. This not only created immediate income but also encouraged entrepreneurial confidence among persons with visual impairment.
The outreach was also connected to SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, as it promoted the inclusivity and active participation of persons with disabilities in a university-led program. By giving them equal space to showcase their skills and products, the activity highlighted their capabilities and reinforced their role in community and economic life. Furthermore, the event demonstrated SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through the collaboration of SBAA student organizations, the University of Baguio, and VIPPD. The collective efforts of the students in organizing, assisting, and promoting the program showcased how partnerships can generate broader impact for both beneficiaries and the academic community.
VIPPD members showcase their skills through massage services, proving that inclusivity creates both livelihood and community impact.
In the afternoon program, the SBAA student organizations collaborated to provide a platform for the members of VIPPD to showcase their skills and products at the University of Baguio Centennial Hall. VIPPD members actively engaged with students and faculty by offering massage services and selling their handmade foot rugs, while student volunteers assisted in coordinating clients to ensure smooth participation and interaction. Proceeds from the activities supported VIPPD’s livelihood initiatives, strengthening their capacity to sustain community-based projects. To further expand visibility and income, the Junior Association of Marketing Executives (JAME) also took part by personally selling the handwoven rugs, bringing the products to a wider audience beyond the venue.
The outreach created immediate benefits by providing VIPPD members with opportunities to earn income, increase the visibility of their products and services, and strengthen their connection with the university community. In the long run, the event fostered stronger partnerships between SBAA student organizations and the visually impaired community, promoting a culture of empowerment and inclusivity.
Beyond its economic impact, the program also offered a transformative experience for students, who gained firsthand insight into the value of social solidarity and community action. As one participant shared, “Ganda ng outreach activity, perfect sa times na super stressed na,” the activity not only supported beneficiaries but also inspired personal growth and gave students meaningful relief in the midst of their academic challenges.
Overall, the activity successfully concluded with the heartfelt remarks of Ms. Rhoda Manansala, CPA, MBA, who thanked the members of VIPPD for their effort, hard work, and optimism. Her words resonated with both students and participants, affirming the spirit of cooperation between the University of Baguio and local organizations. More than a single-day event, the VIPPD Livelihood and Promotional Outreach stood as a testimony to the power of partnership, inclusivity, and shared commitment to sustainable development.
