Faculty members from the University of Baguio – School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (UB-SIHTM), Ms. Desiree Anne Olimpo and Mr. Mark Anthony Santos, participated in an immersive masterclass where they get to learn about the secrets behind the Gideonized process in terms of event styling that delves into artistry, innovation and storytelling highlighting how clients’ dreams are turned into reality.
Held from June 30 to July 3, 2025, the four-day masterclass marked a significant milestone in the journey of Gideon Hermosa, a renowned event stylist and designer, as he celebrated 15 years of redefining creativity and elegance in the events industry.
Participants in the masterclass were immersed in a comprehensive programme that covered key areas such as venue transformation, branding, craftsmanship, layout, floral installations, lights and effects, as well as strategies for mastering visibility, content, and conversion, and even tips on how the creatives sustain their creativity and safeguard their wellbeing. A vital component of the masterclass was the hands-on workshops, where the participants applied their learning.
Industry professionals served as speakers and facilitators, including Gideon Hermosa himself — Founder and Creative Director of House of Hermosa —along with Rocky Ali (CEO and partner, PINO), Mark Mendoza Ocampo (Co-founder and Managing Director, Auro Chocolate), Wendy El-Khoury (Founder, Wedded Wonderland), Dr. Carmela Cecilia Ramos, MD, MBA (Regenerative and Integrative Medicine Specialist, Aivee Clinic), Michael Ruiz (Event Stylist, MRuiz Event Styling), Teddy Manuel, (Event Stylist, Teddy Manuel Flowers and Events), Ron Van Der Salm (Account Manager, Florca), John Grima (CEO, John Emmanuel Floral Events), Edgardo Zamora (CEO and Main Designer, Revelry Event Designers), Meltem Tepeler (Founder and CEO, KM Events), Christine Ong Te (CEO, COTE Events), and Charisse Tinio (President, Niceprint Photo Inc.)
Notably, Gideon Hermosa is an alumnus of the University of Baguio, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management — a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing excellent professionals.
Furthermore, the faculty members’ participation in the masterclass is an integral component of SIHTM’s faculty immersion program. It bridges the theory-practice gap by equipping educators with real-time knowledge and experience, key elements in delivering richer and more relevant classroom instruction. The immersion also seeks to further enhance the credibility of tourism and hospitality educators through the practical insights gained and authentic cases they can present as examples, while strengthening meaningful linkages between the industry and academia.
Given the rapid transformation of the hospitality industry that is driven by technological advancements, a growing emphasis on sustainability, and evolving consumer expectations, educators need to keep pace with industry trends and realities through ongoing faculty immersion.
