Empowering Change: SMU Graduate Studies leads seminar Digital Engagement, Environmental Sustainability, and Lasting Customer Relationships
The Business Administration and Public Administration Cluster of the School of Graduate Studies brought together Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) owners, managers, and business enthusiasts on November 29, 2025, at the School of Graduate Studies Defense Room for a half-day seminar themed “From Clicks to Community: How Digital Engagement Drives Environmental Sustainability and Lasting Customer Relationships.” The event emphasized the integration of modern digital marketing strategies with sustainability-driven business practices and government support mechanisms. Designed to provide MSMEs with practical, holistic insights, the seminar highlighted ways to build brand resilience, deepen customer engagement, and embrace environmentally responsible business models aligned with provincial and national development goals.
The program formally opened with a prayer led by Flordesierra E. Salamanca, followed by warm welcome remarks from Dr. Loreta V. Garlitos. One of the early highlights of the event was the message delivered by DTI Nueva Vizcaya Acting Provincial Director Ramil D. Garcia, CPA, who affirmed DTI’s continued commitment to promoting sustainability-focused innovation and responsible digital engagement. He underscored the importance of market access, capacity-building programs, and green economic development in shaping resilient enterprises. Garcia also emphasized the vital collaboration among DTI, academic institutions like Saint Mary’s University, and local communities in cultivating a future-ready business environment. Dr. Harrison T. Villanueva, faculty-in-charge of MBA Marketing Management, then articulated the seminar’s purpose—encouraging participants to embrace people-centered, environmentally conscious strategies that strengthen customer relationships and support community development.
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The first part of the program showcased three MBA learners who delivered presentations anchored in industry trends and forward-thinking business concepts. Anna Fritzie T. Gammad opened the segment with “The Power of Visual Storytelling,” where she discussed how compelling and authentic narratives can elevate brand identity, inspire trust, and drive meaningful engagement. Prince Nicole M. Peralta followed with “Mapping the Customer Journey,” offering insights on understanding consumer behavior, optimizing touchpoints, and designing experiences that enhance loyalty. Rounding off the segment, Eugenie Ruby U. Barrientos presented “Understanding SDGs for Environmental Action,” reinforcing the importance of aligning business operations with global sustainability principles.
The second segment focused on available government programs supporting sustainability and MSME development. Robelyn Mae A. Lising, MBA student and DTI Trade Industry Development Specialist, presented DTI’s Programs, Activities, and Projects on environmental sustainability and green economic development. Her presentation inspired participants to integrate national sustainability priorities into their business ventures. This was followed by Mrs. Juditte L. Asuncion, Provincial Cooperative Affairs Officer of the Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office (PROCEDE), who highlighted the office’s significant role in promoting inclusive economic growth for cooperatives, associations, and entrepreneurs. She emphasized PROCEDE’s contribution to SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through programs such as Access to Technology benchmarking activities, Capability Trainings, Market Linkages, Funding Access, and Investment Promotion Services. These initiatives enable MSMEs to modernize operations, enhance skills, expand markets, and attract investment—collectively advancing sustainable and inclusive development across Nueva Vizcaya.
Following her presentation, Dr. Harrison T. Villanueva shared the faculty research study titled “MSMEs’ Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals’ Attainment and Challenges Encountered: Towards a Proposed Training Plan with DTI and PLGU.” His presentation offered a comprehensive overview of the SDGs and showcased exemplary MSMEs in Nueva Vizcaya that demonstrate strong sustainability practices. The study also addressed the challenges faced by local enterprises and underscored the need for coordinated capacity-building initiatives with DTI and the Provincial Government to strengthen MSMEs’ contributions to SDG attainment.
The third part of the seminar featured an action planning session that enabled MSME owners, managers, and business enthusiasts to translate the day’s insights into actionable, community-centered strategies. Participants later presented their output—each action plan reflecting creativity, analytical depth, and a shared commitment to sustainable and socially responsible business development.
The event concluded with heartfelt closing remarks from Dr. Gertrude G. Danao, Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, who commended the speakers, participants, and partner agencies for their meaningful contributions and active engagement.
Saint Mary’s University continues to uphold its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Through initiatives like this seminar, SMU strengthens its mission of developing leaders who champion sustainability, foster community empowerment, and help build a future where both people and the planet can thrive.
Written by: Dr. Harrison T. Villanueva
Photo by: contributed photos by MMBA 203 students
