Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) proudly hosted the 11th Regional Congress and Skills Competition for the Council of Tourism and Hospitality Educators of Zamboanga Peninsula (CTHEZP) from November 13-15, 2024, drawing an unprecedented 1,193 student-participants from 20 higher education institutions across the region.
Addressing the congress on its second day, WMSU President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena delivered an inspiring message that underscored the event’s deeper significance beyond competition. “Today marks not just another day of showcasing skills, but an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the tourism and hospitality sector’s role in regional and global development,” she remarked.
Dr. Ochotorena emphasized the congress as a unique avenue for aligning local expertise with international standards. “This event provides us with invaluable insights as we bridge local knowledge with global practices. The tourism and hospitality sector connects people across cultures, bridging worlds through shared experiences,” she added, stressing the need to prepare students not only with technical skills but also with cultural awareness and adaptability.
Drawing inspiration from Mark Twain’s words, she reminded the audience, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” She emphasized that the tourism and hospitality industry has the unique power to create understanding and unity across borders, urging everyone to pursue excellence not only in skills but also in fostering a vision of inclusivity and internationalization.
A major highlight of the event was WMSU’s recognition with the prestigious Hall of Fame Award. This honor was bestowed upon the university, through the College of Home Economics, for its remarkable achievement as a five-time consecutive champion in the CTHEZP Skills Competition. WMSU’s consistent demonstration of creativity, technical prowess, and teamwork has garnered widespread respect and admiration from peers, judges, and industry professionals.
Dr. Rody P. Garcia, the CHED-IX Regional Director, was represented by Dr. Jose Vicente Mikael A. Regalado, CHED Education Supervisor II, who emphasized the vital role that tourism plays in the global economy. He added that the industry supports over 330 million jobs worldwide, accounting for 10% of the global workforce. In the Philippines, tourism remains a key economic driver, contributing to local businesses and communities by attracting millions of visitors each year.
Addressing the students, Dr. Regalado stressed the importance of embracing the congress theme. “The future of tourism and hospitality is intertwined with global collaboration,” he said. “Success in this field requires building bridges across cultures, languages, and borders. You, as the future leaders of this industry, have the power to shape its direction and set new standards.”
The event featured enlightening keynote addresses from esteemed international and local speakers. Dr. H.K. Prihartono, Director of Politeknik Piksi Ganesha in Indonesia, discussed current trends and challenges facing the tourism and hospitality sectors. He emphasized the significance of partnerships and strategic alliances, drawing from Indonesia’s experience in fostering industry growth through collaboration.
Adding to the global perspective, WMSU’s own Dr. Mario R. Obra, Jr., Director of the External Linkages and International Relations Office, shared insights on the future directions of global collaborations. His session focused on guiding institutions in their journey towards internationalization, providing actionable strategies for building cross-border partnerships that can elevate educational standards.
This annual gathering continues to serve as a premier platform for showcasing student talent, fostering collaboration, and shaping future leaders in the tourism and hospitality industry. WMSU once again reaffirmed its commitment to excellence in tourism and hospitality education, serving as a beacon of inspiration for institutions throughout the region.
LMP-PAO
