THE Student Internship Program (SIP) held its Mass for Interns and Orientation last Jan. 24, 2026,  at the St. Benedict Chapel and the Multipurpose Hall (MPH), respectively. The activity aimed to guide graduating students of SBCA through discussions on career pathing and workplace protection as they prepare for their internship deployment this second semester.

Mass for Interns

The Eucharistic celebration presided over by SBCA Rector-President Rev. Fr. Gerard Ma. De Villa, OSB provided a moment of reflection and thanksgiving as interns prepared to enter a new chapter beyond the walls of the College. The mass emphasized faith, service, and responsibility, reminding students to carry the Bedan values with them as they step into the professional world.

The Rector-President delivered a message of hope and encouragement to the graduating students as they prepare to enter in their respective fields and the workforce as Bedans. Also present in the Eucharistic celebration was Dr. Rosario Mielma C. Aquino, Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences, and Education (SASE), showing her support for the graduating students as they embark on this new chapter as student interns.

“You continue to train in your respective fields in this internship program, and I ask that you show your best Bedan identity as you serve in your respective areas,” Fr. Gerard said during his final blessing.

Career Paths and Workplace Rights

The orientation began with a talk by Atty. Elcid Jules Salcedo, dean of the Institute of Public Administration and Governance and the legal consultant of Parañaque City College and a Bedan alumni, who emphasized that career opportunities vary from one individual to another, highlighting the importance of choosing a path that aligns with one’s goals and aspirations, as well as how to safeguard one’s rights as a student intern.

 He stated that there are many factors to consider in navigating one’s ideals, goals, values, and stability for their profession. 

Atty. Salcedo divided the discussion by presenting the advantages of working for the private sector, government, academe, and taking the entrepreneurial route.

“In determining which career or path you will go, you have to determine your goals. Ano po ba ang inyong goal sa buhay? Ano po ba ang gusto niyong trabaho at bakit?” he asked, stressing that one should consider several factors before proceeding with their chosen career path.

He further explained that employment in the private sector offers several advantages, including competitive salaries, comprehensive health benefits that may cover dependents, and opportunities for incentives and overseas work. He added that private companies often provide greater flexibility in hiring qualifications, with employment decisions largely based on performance and management discretion.

On the other hand, he described that working in the government sector was a noble cause: “When you enter into the government, public service is really public trust.” He stressed that working for the government sector is “serbisyo publiko,” highlighting the role of public servants in serving the community and contributing to nation-building.

Government employees enjoy job security, a regular fixed income, and structured positions with clear openings. Retirement benefits through the Government Service Insurance System also provide higher pensions, making public service both stable and meaningful.

Furthermore, Atty. Salcedo emphasized that a career path in the academe is an avenue to further one’s studies. It provides flexibility, allowing employees to take on part-time work while teaching, and the opportunity to interact with students and help shape their minds. Working in education also allows a person to gain experience, contribute to research, write or edit books, and even conduct seminars, making it a fulfilling path for both personal and professional growth.

For the field of entrepreneurship, he said that starting one’s business offers independence in decision-making and career direction, along with the potential for financial growth through building and expanding a personal enterprise.

Protection under the law

Besides discussing career opportunities, Atty. Salcedo also introduced the legal safeguards an intern can apply as a matter of legal right when they face harassment or discrimination in the workplace. 

The Anti-sexual Harassment Act of 1995 was enacted to protect individuals from sexual harassment in the workplace, educational institutions, and training environments. He noted that such misconduct in the workplace is not limited to interactions between opposite sexes.

He also introduced the Safe Spaces Act, also known as the Bawal Bastos Law, which serves as a legal safeguard to protect individuals against sexual harassment, public disrespect, and other forms of gender-based harassment in streets, workplaces, public spaces, and even online.

However, under the principle of double jeopardy, a person cannot be prosecuted twice for the same act and therefore cannot be held liable under both the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act and the Safe Spaces Act.

“Wala na tayo sa panahon na normal ang ganitong bagay,” Atty. Salcedo said, stating that sexual misconduct and discrimination should not be normalized or exercised in this day and age — it is important for student interns to be fully informed of their rights, as this safeguards them from potential abuse or unjust treatment by their employers.