BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — Upholding the “Marian” brand of innovation and social responsibility, Saint Mary’s University (SMU) secured the 1st Runner-Up position during the Project LIGHT Business Pitching Competition, held on February 2, 2026, at the Paniqui Hall, Capitol Compound.
The competition, centered on the theme “Knock Down Furniture,” challenged higher education institutions (HEIs) to design furniture concepts that are not only market- ready but also deeply aligned with global sustainability standards.

The winning delegation from Saint Mary’s University was composed of visionary second-year students from the School of Business and Accountancy who impressed the panel with their innovative use of sustainable materials, such as bamboo, and their space-saving ergonomic designs. This talented team of “Marian” innovators included Maria Atasha Dorain Reyes and Jurojin Cabanilla from the Marketing Management program, Mico Lucian Gragasin from the Entrepreneurship program, and Jhoyrich Mae Peralta alongside Lei Keneth Lolong from the Financial Management program, all of whom reached this milestone under the expert
guidance of faculty coach Michael Dominque G. Magaway and the supervision of Department Head Sheryl A. Adducul-Baria. Ultimately, the team’s success earned
them a cash prize of ₱15,000, a feat that reinforces the university’s steadfast commitment to excellence and its mission to produce “citizens of the world” who lead
with ethical wisdom and social responsibility.

By serving as a flagship program under the leadership of Governor Atty. Jose “Jing” V. Gambito, Project LIGHT (Livelihood Integration and Growth through Holistic Housing Initiative) actively empowers the youth to become integral partners in provincial development. The initiative promotes sustainable development by fostering student entrepreneurship and job creation in line with SDG 8, while simultaneously championing SDG 12 by utilizing eco-friendly materials and logistical efficiencies to minimize environmental impact. Consequently, the project drives provincial growth by bridging the gap between academic theory and industrial innovation, successfully fulfilling the objectives of SDG 9.

SDG 8, SDG 12 and SDG 9

Written by: Aryan L. Yuzon, Promotions Coordinator, School of Accountancy and Business
Photo by: Gayyem TV