By Lysander Tiu
To facilitate discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing, the Silliman University Junior Marketing Association (SUJMA) organized the 23rd Strategic Marketing (StratMark) Student Conference held last Oct. 8 at the Claire Isabel McGill Luce Auditorium.
Themed “Transform: Marketing in the Age of AI and Sustainability,” SUJMA partnered with the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) through its student branch, the Philippine JMA.
The conference consisted of morning and afternoon sessions featuring talks from 43rd Agora Awards Director Alpha Allanigui and Avanza Inc. President Yayu Javier.
Allanigui discussed sustainability marketing and shared insights on “how brands can thrive while making a positive impact on the planet.”
Meanwhile, Javier talked about social marketing principles and using social strategies to “connect, engage, and make a difference.”
According to SUJMA co-adviser Asst. Prof. Leonidas Cañete, the conference helped students gain insights on AI in industries while exploring its ethical and sustainability challenges.
“The conference will foster the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential as AI becomes increasingly prevalent in professional settings,” he said.
Moreover, SUJMA co-adviser Asst. Prof. Lou Shien Ban Granaderos said that the theme reflects the commitment of the College of Business Administration to prepare students for leadership beyond academics.
“This holistic approach to business education equips students to lead with integrity and responsibility in their careers,” she stated.
StratMark is the annual flagship program of PMA that converges marketing students, educators, and professionals across Southeast Asia.
SU invited students, business practitioners, industry professionals, educators, and entrepreneurs across the Negros Island Region.
In celebration of PMA’s 70th anniversary, the conference premiered outside of Metro Manila for the first time and was live-streamed in eight different locations nationwide.
On the PMA partnership
SU was chosen as one of nine partner schools following discussions between Granaderos and PMA Director for Youth and Academe Leah Guba-Ayeng.
SUJMA Vice President – Internal Rima Rasheeda Aluk said that the partnership established a vision of advancing marketing education and preparing students for future business challenges.
“StratMark required extensive logistical planning, including securing venues and ensuring a smooth experience for attendees,” SUJMA President Brent Emmanuel Rabina shared.
