Written by Judivina Marie Calde & Jenny Rose Manipon | Photos courtesy of Evangelos Benedict Obdin
The School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM) recently concluded its Gathering of the Champions on February 13, 2025, at the University of Baguio Gymnasium, providing students with essential information to guide their academic and professional journeys. This semestral event brought together students, mentors, and alumni, fostering the exchange of knowledge and advice from champions to aspiring champions.
The program commenced with a welcome message from Dean Jenelyn Magpatoc, who emphasized the significance of the event for the SIHTM students. This was followed by a short lecture from Ms. Joanna Marie Villavicencio, a faculty member of the Tourism Management program. She shared her experiences as a student leader, encouraging students to be proactive and take initiative within their organizations and classrooms.
Ms. Rojie May Santos, an alumna and former student leader of SIHTM, then took the stage with an inspiring testimony about what it means to be a champion. She highlighted how the school shaped her leadership skills and emphasized the importance of having “grit” in achieving success.
Next, Ms. Kresdale May Pacalso, the Program Chair for Hospitality Management, reminded students about the requirements necessary for their junior practicum. To promote community involvement, Ms. Dixie Lidawan, SIHTM ECOS Coordinator, stressed the importance of contributing to the community and how change begins with oneself.
Student Body Adviser Ms. Joan Florague then urged students to engage in university activities, emphasizing that college is not solely about academics but also about personal growth through extracurricular involvement. Supporting this statement, alumni Ms. Cariza Mae Ferrer and Mr. Adrian Paul Pagal shared how participating in university activities helped them apply their knowledge and skills in real-life settings.
Moreover, Ms. Rachel Grace Liclican, another esteemed mentor to future champions, delved into the requirements and benefits of being an academic scholar. She also emphasized the essential classroom policies that students must adhere to, highlighting their importance in championing academic excellence.
Following the presentation of certificates to the alumni speakers, the AACACO, Tourism, and Hospitality mentors were introduced by their respective program chairs. Additionally, the newly appointed Student Body officer was presented by the outgoing Student Body Governor, Sharon Princess Dwaynne Tamayo. The program concluded with inspiring closing remarks from another SIHTM mentor, Ms. Ma. Victoria Natividad.
Despite the large number of students and limited working committee members, the event ran smoothly, through the efforts of the Student Administrative Council officers, with the support of Dean Jenelyn Magpatoc, their adviser Ms. Joan Florague, and mentors Ms. Kresdale May Pacalso, Ms. Joanna Marie Villavicencio, Ms. Mary Joy Limpin, and with the assistance of Ms. Pamela Eileen Mae Consul. Faculty members, Ms. Roeanne Mylene Yango and Mr. Mark Anthony Santos served as the gathering’s masters of ceremonies.
The General Assembly was not just an opportunity to relay important information but also a testament to the power of mentorship and leadership. It served as a reminder that success is not achieved alone but through continuous learning, perseverance, and guidance from those who came before us. The event inspired students to embrace challenges, take initiative, and strive for excellence in their academic and professional endeavors. With the insights shared by alumni and mentors, students left the gathering more equipped to face their future with confidence. The Gathering of the Champions truly lived up to its name—empowering the next generation of leaders and proving that the spirit of excellence is alive within the University of Baguio.
