Students from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) have undertaken impactful community projects, demonstrating their commitment to social responsibility and putting their skills to good use. Interior design students, in particular, have been at the forefront of initiatives to upgrade and renovate spaces for vulnerable populations, including those in orphanages and special education centers.
With the goal to create a conducive environment for healing and growth, they chose Asilo de San Vicente de Paul, a centuries old, non-profit children’s home in Paco, Manila.
Founded in 1885 by Sister Asuncion Ventura, Daughters of Charity, the first Filipina to establish an orphanage in the Philippines, the home is widely admired as s refuge for abandoned and disadvantaged children.
With the objective of putting its skills and resources to good use, a team of young undergraduates has renovated and refurbished the social hall of Asilo.

Dubbed Kandili which stands for “to care for and provide support”, the make-over project of the Interior Design Program students of the DLS-CSB reflects the institution’s mission to serve as a haven of hope for its beneficiaries as it transforms the lives of the affected.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Randy Pabona, the Kandili team was comprised of Monica Lorenzo, Julliane Magat, Mark Ian Papa, Canmy de Guzman, Moira Ramiro, Micah Casugbo, Aevan de Jesus, Joey May Perez and Emilio Flores.
“Social services play essential role in addressing the challenges faced by individuals and families in difficult circumstances” says the group. “It aims to protect the vulnerable and marginalized by offering assistance and resources to empower them and be self-sufficient”.
The building innovators utilized a color or scheme of vibrant pallets to foster calmness, optimism and productivity. Human-center designed solutions were adapted to positively influence the mood, cognition, and behavior of individuals during counseling.
To foster a sense of privacy during sessions, the consultation area was converted into cubicles with partitions. A multi-purpose conference nook was likewise built to accommodate meetings and group discussion. In addition, ergonomic office chairs were provided to ensure comfort.
The area handling the children’s well-being was also given an update. The vibrant team from DLS-CSB refurbished and customized modular furniture pieces to maximize space and cater to additional and dedicated storage compartments.
With the well-being of children in mind, the elements feature round edges and an eye-catching blue hue for visual appeal and to prevent kids from accidental bumps.

The project highlighted the hands-on and socially conscious approach to education at DLS-CSB. The students not only apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings but also engage in fundraising activities—such as bake sales and raffle draws—to support these community-based efforts. These initiatives go beyond simple renovations; they are a testament to the students’ dedication to making a tangible, positive difference in the lives of others. The renovated spaces are designed to be multi-sensory, accessible, and adaptable, ensuring they meet the specific needs of the residents and promote a sense of safety and unity.
With additional report: The Manila Times