Written by Rachel Grace A. Liclican
Bringing together hospitality and tourism industry partners, alumni, faculty, and students, the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM) hosted its 11th Tripartite Collaboration Forum on March 13, 2025, at the University of Baguio’s Centennial Hall. Centered around the theme “Advancing Partnerships for Sustainable Progress,” the event featured a roundtable discussion format, fostering meaningful dialogue among stakeholders.
Discussions focused on key industry and academic concerns, including the Revised Guidelines on Class and Work Suspension in Schools during Disasters and Emergencies, LGBTQIA+ Employment Opportunities in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry, Aligning Hospitality and Tourism Education with Workforce Needs, and Managing Bullying in the Workplace. Updates from the industry and the academe were also shared in the latter part of the discussion.
After a series of table discussions, participants shared insights emphasizing that while on-the-job trainees are trained to adapt to real-world work settings, including reporting during various weather conditions, adherence to class and work suspension guidelines remains paramount. The three sectors underscored that student safety and well-being must always be the top priority.
Insights on employment opportunities for LGBTQIA+ individuals were also discussed, including grooming protocols in the workplace. Industry partners highlighted the growing inclusivity within their organizations while emphasizing the importance of professionalism. Employees are encouraged to express themselves through their attire; however, they must still adhere to company dress codes and maintain a professional appearance. One industry representative shared, “While we value self-expression, we must also consider the people we interact with, especially in the service industry.”
Furthermore, the University of Baguio is lauded by the industry partners because of its strategies in preparing its graduates to be well-prepared for employment. Insights highlighted the importance of producing well-rounded graduates with substantial industry exposure. Additionally, staying updated with emerging trends was emphasized as crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the field.
The final discussion emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy work environment. While employees, including on-the-job trainees, are oriented on workplace policies and mutual respect is fostered, resilience in handling challenges remains essential for professional growth and success.
Following the discussions, industry partners and alumni were given the opportunity to share updates from their respective sectors. SIHTM presented its latest developments, including integrating Virtual Reality and other innovations.
Aligning with SDG #4 (Quality Education), SDG #8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG #17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the collaboration forum served as a platform for fostering meaningful discussions and strengthening industry-academe partnerships.
Dean Jenelyn Mangangey-Magpatoc led the discussion as the facilitator, with program chairs Ms. Joanna Marie Villavicencio, Ms. Kresdale May Pacalso, and Ms. Mary Joy Limpin serving as moderators.
The Tripartite Collaboration Forum was spearheaded by Ms. Roeanne Mylene Yango, together with her Introduction to Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events Management (TPC 106) Class, Section HCM.
