Written by Sharon Princess Dwaynne Tamayo
On October 12, 2024, the 21st EdukCircle International Convention on Tourism and Hospitality took place at the GT Toyota Asian Center Auditorium, University of the Philippines Diliman. A notable highlight of the event was the active participation of the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM), which proudly showcased the excellence of its faculty and students.
Ms. Mary Joy Limpin, the Program Chair of the Association of Arts in Culinary Arts and Catering Operations (AACACO), was recognized as one of the Honorary Chairmen reflecting her remarkable leadership and contributions to hospitality education. Ms. Kresdale May Pacalso, the Program Chair of the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) Program, was one of the award presenters during the convention being an honorary chairman for the previous year.
Ms. Joanna Marie Villavicencio, Ms. Lauren Kaye Navarro, and Mr. Mark Anthony Santos, faculty members, participated in the panel discussion on the topics Technology and Sustainability in Hospitality, The Role of Gender in Sustainable Tourism and Development, and Conservation of Intangible Cultural Heritage respectively.
Meanwhile, UBSIHTM Dean, Ms. Jenelyn Mangangey-Magpatoc, delivered a comprehensive and enlightening talk on Conservation of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
A particular highlight was the paper presentation by Mary Angel Guarin, a fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management specializing in International Tourism (BSTM-IT) student. Ms. Guarin presented the research, “An Exploration of Mural Tourism in Baguio City.” Her presentation captivated the audience as she discussed the cultural and economic significance of murals in the tourism landscape of Baguio, a city celebrated for its rich art scene.
Adding to the event’s success was Ms. Patricia Mae Dueñas, who had the honor of introducing Prof. Rielle Christian D. Alcantara, an esteemed Assistant Professor at the University of the Philippines Asian Institute of Tourism. Also, SIHTM students had the opportunity to lead the doxology and national anthem during the event.
The School of IHTM’s participation in the 21st EdukCircle Convention highlighted the school’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and the holistic development of its students. The event was a proud moment for the faculty, staff, and students, as they continue to help shape the future of tourism and hospitality in the Philippines.
