The Cebu Technological UniversityโDaanbantayan Campus reaffirmed its commitment to producing globally competitive graduates as it held a Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP) Orientation and Feedbacking initiative for its Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management (BSHM) interns on June 29, 2025.
Led by Dr. Tracy L. Mantos, Director of the SIAP Office, the program was designed to holistically prepare outgoing student interns for international deployment, while also offering a space for returnees to share real-world experiences from their global internship journeys.
The event, themed “Navigating Global Pathways: Preparing Interns for the World, Learning from Those Whoโve Been,” officially opened with Dr. Lovella Christianne A. Gulle, Dean of the College of Technology and Engineering, who welcomed the participants with words of encouragement. This was followed by a statement of purpose delivered by Prof. Felixberto T. Lucabon, Jr., Assistant Campus Director and Dean of Instruction.
In his message, Campus Director Dr. Ruben M. Ungui emphasized the importance of professionalism, resilience, and adaptability as CTU students enter culturally diverse and demanding hospitality workplaces abroad.
A key component of the orientation was the participation of Adapper Management Consultancy, CTUโs long-time partner in global internship training and preparation. Managing Director Dr. Adalbert M. Alcaide provided practical guidance on internship logistics, legal protocols, and overseas work requirements.
Meanwhile, Ms. Chelytte S. Candelasa, Adapperโs Student Development Manager and Marketing Director, facilitated an in-depth session on intercultural communication, workplace behavior, health, safety, and self-careโall essential for navigating life and work overseas.
The afternoon portion featured the Interns Returnees Feedbacking segment, where BSHM students who had successfully completed their internships abroad shared their journeys, reflections, and learnings.
Among the featured returnees were:
- Mr. Dio Lyn M. Villarinโ Sunwing Kamala Beach, Phuket, Thailand
- Mr. John Ervin M. Gulfanโ Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort, Thailand
- Ms. Joemica Nina G. Ancheta, Ms. Sha-umi Marshelette T. Palad, and Ms. Buena Marie M. Arregladoโ The Langham, Hong Kong
Their testimonies highlighted both the challenges and triumphs of working in foreign hospitality industriesโfrom cultural adjustments and homesickness to career breakthroughs and newfound confidence. Their stories resonated deeply with the outgoing interns, serving as living proof that with the right preparation, Filipino students can excel on the world stage.
The event concluded with the awarding of certificates of appreciation to the speakers and participants, celebrating their contributions to the internationalization of CTUโs academic mission.
With strong institutional support and visionary leadership from Dr. Mantos, the SIAP Office of CTU Daanbantayan continues to bridge local training with global opportunity. Through initiatives like this, CTU not only sends students abroadโit empowers them to lead with excellence, serve with cultural intelligence, and return with global insight.
By Dr. Nikkithea L. Beduya | Director, ICPA Daanbantayan Campus
