With the theme “Shaping the Future of Hospitality: A Commitment to Personal Development, Sustainability, and Innovation”, the Kalinga State University-College of Entrepreneurship, Tourism, and Hospitality Management (CETHM) successfully conducted the 2nd Province-Wide Hospitality Convention on December 12, 2024, at the Golden Berries Hotel and Convention Center. Led by MICE Adviser Ms. GloryAnn Karen C. Caldingon and organized by second-year Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management students, the event gathered selected participants from Balong National High School, Kalinga Colleges of Science and Technology (KCST), Cordillera A+ Computer Technology College (C+ACT), International School of Asia and the Pacific (ISAP), Naneng National High School (NNHS), and Cal-owan Agricultural Vocational National High School (CAVNHS).
The convention aimed to create opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among future hospitality leaders. It sought to equip participants with tools and insights to enhance leadership skills, foster personal development, and address challenges in the hospitality industry. Moreover, it emphasized promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, aligning with global trends to benefit businesses and the environment.
In her opening remarks, Ms. GlorryAnn Karen C. Caldingon underscored the significance of the convention in shaping participants’ future careers. She encouraged attendees to embrace the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry and emphasized the event’s goal of equipping them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-changing environment. Dr. Karen Razelle M. Duyan, Dean of CETHM, also highlighted the transformative role of hospitality in creating connections and exceeding expectations. “The world of hospitality is waiting for your unique brand of magic. Step out of your comfort zone, unleash your creativity, and ignite the spark that will revolutionize the industry,” she remarked, inspiring participants to strive for excellence.
The event featured insightful discussions from esteemed speakers, including Ms. Lovelia R. Iringan, KSU Guidance Counselor, who spoke on Leadership for Personal and Professional Growth in Hospitality; Ms. Grace B. Agtina, owner of Golden Berries Hotel and Convention Center, who discussed Innovation as the Driving Force of Hospitality Evolution; and Ms. Arlene B. Odiem, City Tourism Department Head, who presented Sustainability as a Pillar of Hospitality Excellence. These sessions explored leadership development, innovation-driven guest experiences, operational efficiency, and the role of sustainability in advancing the hospitality industry.
The convention also showcased the talents and skills of participants through various competitions. In the Slogan Making Competition, Ms. Loida C. Pillatong (KCST) won first place, followed by Ms. Shania Princess Krizza M. Lapitan (C+ACT) in second place, Ms. Ronalyn G. Villodo (CAVNHS) in third, and Mr. Jomark L. Fontanilla (BNHS) in fourth. For the Table Skirting Competition, the team of Ms. Jo-analyn A. Arcardo, Ms. Erlinda Faye S. Viernes, and Mr. Kenneth S. Martinez (BNHS) secured first place, with teams from CAVNHS, C+ACT, and NNHS taking second, third, and fourth places, respectively. In the Quiz Bee, Mr. John Laim B. Pilala and Mr. Reymark S. Calizar (C+ACT) emerged as champions, followed by teams from KCST, BNHS, and NNHS in the subsequent ranks.
The 2nd Province-Wide Hospitality Convention 2024 demonstrated KSU-CETHM’s commitment to developing future leaders in the hospitality industry. By fostering innovation, sustainability, and personal growth, the convention empowered participants to envision a brighter, more sustainable future in hospitality. It left attendees inspired, equipped with valuable insights, and ready to make a positive impact in the industry.
