Written by Jenelyn Mangangey-Magpatoc
In a significant move toward fostering international academic collaboration and cultural exchange, students and faculty members from the University of Baguio’s School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM), led by School Dean Ms. Jenelyn Mangangey Magpatoc, visited Bangkok University on August 27, 2025. The visit marked an important step forward in exploring potential joint initiatives between two institutions that share a common platform — their membership in the prestigious Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
Accompanying Dean Magpatoc were two distinguished faculty members, Ms. Roeanne Mylene K. Yango and Ms. Lauren D. Navarro, along with students pursuing degrees in tourism and hospitality. This vibrant delegation reflects the University of Baguio’s dedication to SDG 4: Quality Education, emphasizing inclusive and equitable opportunities for global academic exposure and experiential learning in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The Bangkok University team extended a warm welcome, led by Assistant Professor Dr. Duangthida Nunthapirat, Dean of Bangkok University International Programs, and Dr. Panadda Unyapho, Director of the International Affairs Office. Their hospitality and commitment to academic excellence resonated strongly with the values both institutions share, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in higher education.
This collaboration was made possible through the vital connection facilitated by Khun Ben Montgomery, Chairperson of the PATA Thailand Chapter. As active members of PATA, both universities exemplify SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating how international associations can empower academic institutions to collaborate in addressing global challenges through tourism education and research.
During the visit, the UB team toured Bangkok University’s renowned Tourism Tower, guided by the university’s welcoming professors. The tour included access to world-class educational facilities such as hotel laboratory rooms, mock-up hotel suites, kitchen laboratories, and an airline simulation room — all aligned with industry standards. These learning environments emphasize SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in sustainable tourism and hospitality industries.
The dialogue between the two institutions included plans for future academic collaborations such as faculty and student exchange programs, joint research, immersion experiences, and shared curriculum development. These collaborative endeavors support the integration of sustainability principles into education, a key aspect of both SDG 4 and SDG 13: Climate Action, by promoting responsible tourism practices, cultural awareness, and environmental stewardship within their programs.
The University of Baguio expressed deep gratitude for the hospitality extended by Bangkok University, whose openness and generosity fostered a space for meaningful academic engagement and intercultural understanding. More than a formal visit, the engagement reinforced mutual respect, shared global outlooks, and the collaborative spirit championed by PATA.
This landmark initiative symbolizes more than institutional diplomacy — it demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainable, high-quality international education. Through their joint membership in PATA, the University of Baguio and Bangkok University are laying the groundwork for long-term collaboration that supports inclusive education, cross-border mobility, and capacity building in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
As both institutions move forward with optimism, they envision a future where students and faculty thrive in a globally connected academic community — united in the pursuit of academic excellence, sustainability, and shared prosperity through tourism and hospitality education.
