Written by Shantal Gwen Paleyan | Photos by Evangelos Benedict Obdin
The School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM) graduating students gathered at the Newtown Convention Center on May 31, 2025, for the Tribute to the Graduating Students, Parents, and Faculty. They were joined by their proud parents, families, friends, and the SIHTM faculty and staff in a celebration of achievement and gratitude.
More than 650 individuals attended the momentous occasion, themed “Nurturing Excellence: Balancing Brilliance with Sophistication”. Over the years, the university has provided Quality Education (SDG 4) for students, and this event highlighted the hard work students, parents, and faculties have done.
The program opened with a warm welcome from the SIHTM Dean, Dean Jenelyn Mangangey-Magpatoc. In her heartfelt address, she acknowledged the hard work and perseverance of the graduating class, emphasizing that the event was all about them. She concluded her speech with the empowering words, “I was a champion, therefore I can do it,” a statement that deeply resonated with the students and encapsulated the spirit of their academic journey, one built on skill, passion, love for their craft, and a commitment to service.
Some SIHTM alumni shared their testimonies, offering the graduates a glimpse into life after college, where the real journey begins. This was followed by an audiovisual presentation showcasing memorable SIHTM moments and highlighting the remarkable paths taken by many students over the years.
Faculty member Mr. Jumel Oliver Salva then delivered a message to the graduating class. He commended them for the legacy they are leaving behind and expressed pride in their growth. Reflecting on their early days filled with nervous greetings and uncertain steps, he painted a touching picture of how far they had come, now ready to face the world with confidence and purpose. His message blended pride, nostalgia, and hope for the bright futures that await them.
Short but heartfelt response speeches followed, delivered by student representatives from each SIHTM program. Eirhen Fuentes spoke on behalf of the AACACO graduates, Keith Go for BSHM-PCA, Nover Binwag for BSHM-IHBO, and Pamela May Suyom for BSTM-IT. Each reflected on their journey with deep gratitude and appreciation for the experiences and lessons gained.
Outstanding students were recognized for their dedication and excellence through various awards and commendations, including the Distinguished Leadership Award, Distinguished Service Award, Local On-the-Job Training Commendations, International OJT Commendations, and Outstanding Achievement Award. These awards underscore how the University of Baguio continues to shape professionals who are not only competent and passionate but also industry-ready.
Of course, the students’ success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of their parents and guardians. As a tribute, Shammah Grace Macanip performed a heartfelt song dedicated to them, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices and love.
In response, Mr. Leonardo M. Montenegro, one of the parents, expressed his appreciation to the University of Baguio for equipping students with essential knowledge and skills.
As a tribute to faculty members, students presented short video messages and handwritten letters, expressing their gratitude and admiration for their mentors.
Ms. Mary Joy Limpin, the outgoing Program Chair of AACACO, delivered a touching response. She congratulated the graduates and extended her appreciation to the SIHTM family as she steps into a new role as the Director of the Human Resource Management Center of the University. In recognition of her exemplary leadership, she was honored during the event. Likewise, Dr. Alvin Morales was recognized as he was preparing to embark on a new professional journey.
Here are the awardees:
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
These awards recognize graduating students whose dedication and service have greatly contributed to the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management, bringing honor and distinction to the institution.
Distinguished Service Award – Extracurricular Activities
Jericho Mercado
Angelica Godito
Daniel Martinez
Gian Miana
Nath Justine Fuentes
Richard Epler Smith II
Arleigh Soliman
Keith Ronald Asuncion
Eirhen Fernandez Fuentes
Israel Balian
Phoebe Mari Fegcan
Mark Dave Lawan
Wyan Lee Buminaang
Scott Sapul
Johanna Bordeos
Gydney Lexter Prado
Jeward Sagad-ey
Eirhen Fernandez Fuentes
Shammah Grace Macanip
Angelica Mae Mabutas
Jeanette Oggang
Humbert Buenavente
Jhackiri Cadoy
Paulynna Mae Balajadia
Moises Antimano
Jamaica Himoldang
Robert John Fulgencio
Geom Garces
Mhyiel Angelo Villanueva
Bea Margareth Chewachew
Charles Marion Adam
Valerie Catacutan
Rommel Lanuzo
Pamela May Suyom
April Aisa Amolar
Maria Louella Arquero
Nover Binwag
Shari Dana Kimpay
Jhon Christopher Kines
Jasper Molot
Darren Knight Caces
Distinguished Service Award – Performing Arts
Ma. Koreen Tabaldo
Alfred Colar
Joaquin Essirahc Olimpo
Shammah Grace Macanip
Yanna Ingrid Aguto
Angelica Mae Mabutas
Kurt Laurence Beguas
Robert John Fulgencio
Geom Garces
Christein Jeffrey Ocampo
Myka Ahngelyka Queing
Christofer Tinaya
Ralph Lauren Abad
Marcs Stephen Castañeda
Danry Quimson
Wilson Lagao
Jhackiri Cadoy
MC Iverson Palaoag
Jasmin Allijah Borres
Christine Donna Garcia
Jansen Loren De Guzman
Distinguished Service Award – SIHTM Student Athletes
Keith Andrada
Nicko Obeña
DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP AWARD
The award honors graduating students who have demonstrated commendable leadership as officers of student organizations. Through their commitment to reflective leadership—a UBian Graduate Attribute—they have inspired others, fostered positive change, and upheld the values of excellence and service.
Eirhen Fuentes
Shammah Grace Macanip
Angelica Mae Mabutas
Cleo Marie Fernandez
Israel Balian
Pamela May Suyom
Joanna Catrina Juan
Jasmin Allijah Borres
Yanna Ingrid Aguto
Bea Margaret Chewachew
Scott Iverson Sapul
Irvine Troy Cimafranca
Nath Justine Rei Fuentes
Jericho Mercado
Jamile Ashley De Leon
Moises Antimano
Kathlyn Mae Daguio
Lexi Mae Eleponga
Prinz Chester Alejandro
Humbert Buenavente
Leanne Agatha Supangan
Von Franz Nesperos
Mhyiel Angelo Villanueva
Hannah Alabaso
Joshua Kerby Jimenez
Marcs Stephen Castañeda
Valerie Catacutan
Jomel Legaspi
Amber Kate Gomez
LOCAL ON-THE-JOB TRAINING COMMENDATION
These awards celebrate graduating students who have demonstrated exceptional competence in their roles, showcasing mastery of knowledge and skills that exceed industry standards. Their dedication has earned commendations from host training establishments and guests, with some receiving job offers even before graduation, giving them a strong head start in their careers.
Jericho Mercado
Moises Antimano
Nath Fuentes
Kimberly Mhae Estacio
Joelizabeth Mortil
Jhayne Claire Tanghal
David Jan Tenerife
Amber GOmez
Jefenie Reyes
Joaquin Olimpo
Marife Delizo
Frazelli Faith Evangelista
Sthephanie Benos
Catherine Jewel Acutan
Alvin Santong
Angelica May Guanzon
Princess Joan Oficial
Jhon Christopher Kines
Geom Garces
Joshua Tumagan
Jenny Ching Galleto
Rose Jessie Mae Santos
Israel Balian
Adriane Reyes
Arryann Carbonell
Ralph Lauren Abad
Kenjie Dipasupil
Von Franz Nesperos
Heavhen Leigh Sain
Alexa Rae Valdez
Mhyiel Angelo Villanueva
Wayne Isaac Tecson
John Roy Tid-ong
Lyndaelle Nichole Ambeguia
Jerome Theodore Frencillo
Lhenerie Acosta
Eryll Kaye Balasi
Kimberly Posidio
Jerilyn Faustino
Pauline Mae Aruejo
Kurt Laurence Beguas
Robert John Fulgencio
Christofer Tinaya
Christein Jeffrey Ocampo
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT
This award is given to students whose performance is highly applauded by the supervisors, staff, and guests, concluding his/her internship with a full – time job offer, exemplifying the University of Baguio’s Mission of educating individuals to be empowered professionals in a Global Community thus, epitomizing UB’s Culture of Excellence.
James Michael Factora
Jamaica Arcega
Jasmin Allijah Borres
Louigenne Meniano
Kelvin Bulayungan
Liezel Ann Vistada
Fritz Bryan Gatchalian
Desiree Joyce Cabauatan
Rutherford Kenth Mangangey
CERTIFICATES OF DISTINCTION
This award is given to students for achieving distinction through excellence in competitions, setting a benchmark of success and integrity, that brought fame and honor to the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management, exemplifying the University of Baguio’s Culture of Excellence.
Israel Balian
Rutherford Kenth Mangangey
Prinz Chester Alejandro
Jeannette Oggang
Charles Lennon Cucal
Nioby Dale Dupali
Bea Margaret Chewachew
Keith Asuncion
Rio Ocampo
Phoebe Fegcan
Keith Go
Pamela May Suyom
Nover Binwag
Jan Ray Villanueva
Erzon Jake Ganaban
Jomel Legaspi
Wayne Isaac Tecson
Arjeuv Geer
Ma. Angelica Godito
Eirhen Fuentes
Jemimah Sison
Geom Garces
Leann Veatrice Ravina
Johanna Bordeos
Dave Macapallag
Darren Caces
Mark Dave Lawan
Charles Marion Adam
Fholyn Nicole Gundran
Paulynna Balajadia
Sahara Faye Gonzales
Kathy Delopiere
INTERNATIONAL ON-THE-JOB TRAINING COMMENDATION
Aligned with its mission to educate individuals to be empowered professionals in a global community, these awards recognize graduating students who have ventured beyond the country’s borders, carrying with them the essence of Filipino hospitality. Through their exceptional service in multicultural settings, they have demonstrated unwavering dedication, professionalism, and the ability to thrive in diverse environments, bringing honor to their institution and showcasing the warmth and excellence that define Filipino service.
International On-the-Job Training Commendation (United States of America)
Michael Ryle Patrick Abundo
Shannah Rae Aluyen
Angel Kaye Ambeguia
Keisha Marie Andrada
Lea Andres
Trisha Mae Apilis
Jamaica Arcega
Angelica Asuncion
Ysa Camille Avellaneda
Zyryl Avellanoza
Josephine Bartolome
Nover Binwag
Jasmin Allijah Borres
Lynet Bugnay
Kelvin Bulayungan
Clifer Buya
Camila Joy Cabanting
Desiree Joyce Cabauatan
Renelita Calaguas
Kaya Rayna Cariño
Jonathan Bless Celzo
Mari Angela Chang
Harriet Faye Cobcobo
Charles Lennon Cucal
Shekina Day-asen
Richelle Dela Cruz
Iris Dicman
Nicole Joy Difuntorum
Ellen Faith Dio-al
Joshua Lee Drozdziol
Shannen Shane Eclarino
David Fanged
Gracelie Anne Faryao
Phoebe Mari Fegcan
Julie Mae Flojo
Edralyn Gabinete
Kyla Mae Gabol
Djastine Claire Galacinao
Queenie Galimba
Erzon Jake Ganaban
Lara Eunice Garcia
Fritz Bryan Gatchalian
Keith Jessray Go
Mae Guilanda
Irysh Xyza Guillermo
Ella Mae Hafalla
Natasha Marisse Isidro
Juliene Jose
Joanna Catrina Juan
Caryl Joy Lacambra
Maureen Lagare
Joanna Sheila Languido
Mark Dave Lawan
Vhalerie Anne Lee
Shammah Grace Macanip
Carrie Malubdos
Rutherford Kenth Mangangey
Darrylle Mateo
Elhey Jane Mayapit
Rose Marie Medina
Louigenne Meniano
King Omega Muñoz
Ivy Yoshika Olsim
Raizel Paula Ornido
Vince Henry Padilla
Jessica Payang
Blaizy Mae Pias
Jaebez Rezia Pio
Bernardo Quijalvo Jr.
Adriane Louis Ramales
John Patrick Ramos
Mark Raspe
Marjorie Julianne Riomero
Ezra Sagaoc
Randall Joe Siagan
Arleigh Soliman
Pamela May Suyom
Jeleen Tami-ing
Angel Tan
Junie Michelle Uden
Sherly Valdez
Ermae Joy Valenzuela
Liezel Ann Vistada
International On-the-Job Training Commendation (Thailand)
Mark Joseph Villanueva
Leanne Agatha Supangan
Kristerlyn Waclin
Sophia Marie Dueñas
JD Aiver Batawang
Lexi Mae Eleponga
James Michael Factora
Kyla Marie Garcia
Chris Zacchaeus Gavini
April Jasmine Libatique
Jecramel Nardo
Prinz Chester Alejandro
Nioby Dale Dupali
Jasper Caoili
Marcs Stephen Castañeda
Zairel John Formaran
Wilson Lowell Lagao
Kristel Lango
Jomel Legaspi
Carla Marielle Masa
Danry Quimson
Leanne Agatha Supangan
Xyra Noshka Talamayan
Maria Cristina Viduya
Jan Ray Villanueva
Justine Grace Villegas
