Saint Louis College of San Fernando, La Union (SLC-SFLU), through its College of Business and Accountancy (CBA), continues to advance its extension program, the Capability Building Program for the Federated Market Vendors of the City of San Fernando, La Union. Implemented through progressive phases from a research initiative of the College, the program provides a continuing platform for capability building and practical support for the market vendors following the devastating fire that consumed their livelihood on January 11, 2024.
The initial phase featured a financial literacy and startup seminar and a sanitation seminar conducted on July 30. Building on these activities, the market vendors proposed the establishment of a grilling station as a business initiative. The CBA subsequently provided a portion of the amount needed to start the proposed venture, enabling the community-led proposal to move toward implementation.
The grilling station was officially launched on September 8, 2026, marking a significant development in the continuing implementation of the extension program. The launching included a blessing presided over by Bishop Eugene Lacanaria of Evergreen Church Cadaclan and was graced by City Councilor Leonardo R. Soriano, RPH, as well as officers of the Federated Market Vendors of the City of San Fernando, La Union. Representing the CBA were Dr. Caroline G. Pajimola, Dean, and Mr. Ruel Joseph Balaba, College Adviser.
The initiative reflects SLC-SFLU’s commitment to community engagement as a missionary institution, with missionary engagement recognized as one of its core values. Through the CBA-led program, the institution extends its academic and institutional resources to support initiatives identified by community beneficiaries. The progression from financial literacy, startup, and sanitation seminars to the launch of a proposed grilling station demonstrates the continuing implementation of an extension initiative grounded in capability building and responsive community engagement.
