The Stakeholders Advisory Board Committee Consultation Meeting of Far Eastern University’s Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITHM) served as a collaborative platform to identify key initiatives aimed at strengthening ITHM’s academic programs, ensuring they remain responsive to evolving industry demands and aligned with the university’s commitment to excellence in tourism and hospitality education.
Their discussion centered on enhancing academic quality and ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands and expectations of the future.
“The annual consultation meeting [is important] in fostering future-ready education and aligning academic programs with industry demands,” said Dr. Harold B. Bueno, dean of ITHM. “We [value stakeholder-insights as we also announce] the offering of two new programs—Airline Management and International Culinary Arts—by next academic year.”
Bueno highlighted that tourism is a dynamic industry, which is constantly evolving and pointed out that it is important for today’s curriculum to be relevant for four years after its first implementation. Despite uncertainty, he stressed a crucial priority—ensuring that students become lifelong learners.
“More than mastering current knowledge, students must develop the ability to adapt, continuously learn, and grow with the industry. In the end, being future-ready is not about keeping up with change, but about having the resilience and mindset to thrive in it,” said Bueno.
“[There’s value in] introducing specialized tracks that expand opportunities in the travel sector,” said Gina C. Cueno of Rajah Travel Corporation.
Meanwhile, OMNI Aviation representatives underscored the need for faculty development programs and partnerships leading to globally recognized certification, such as from the International Air Transport Association, alongside early integration of stress and fatigue management in student training. Industry partners also pointed to the growing role of digital transformation, with recommendations to incorporate AI, customer relationship management platforms, and data analytics tools such as Power BI into the curriculum.
“[We must also strengthen] cultural competence through initiatives like halal certification to better address diverse markets,” said George P. Narag of 2GO Group.
In support of holistic student development, participants advocated for integrating wellness and mental health initiatives, including experiential and nature-based learning opportunities. They also recommended the inclusion of financial literacy to equip students with essential decision-making and entrepreneurial skills.
“We need to enhance managerial, operational, and Filipino culinary competencies to better prepare students for real-world industry demands,” said William Clenton Ong of Swiss-Belhotel Blulane.
Carolina Roces, associate department chair for Internship, earlier introduced the SABC for Tourism and Hotel Management, followed by the presentation of key academic programs. The program presentations were delivered by MJ Cal, associate department chair for HRM; Dr. Chrisdie Flores-Tongol, department chair for Tourism; Jose Antonio Mabute, incoming department chair for Airline Management; and Chef Heinz Pelayo, incoming department chair for International Culinary Arts. The discussions covered curriculum structures, program objectives, specializations, industry insights, and academic initiatives designed to enhance student competencies and align with current industry standards.
An open forum was facilitated by Dr. Marichu Liwanag, department chair for Graduate Studies, Research, Innovation, and Technology Transfer, following her brief presentation on ITHM’s graduate programs. She emphasized that stakeholder-feedback plays a vital role in aligning academic offerings with industry needs and in ensuring that students are equipped for future career demands.
The consultation meeting last April 28 at ARH Function Room 302 was attended by representatives from various industry partners and alumni, including Iris Abogado-Monsalve of COMPASS Training Center Inc.; Anthony Apuyan of Advance Aviation Institute/Lufthansa Technik Philippines (online); Jameson Doloso of SEA Aviation Services; Kenneth Fabia of the Department of Transportation; Riane Macalino and Lilibeth Ramos-Mangulabnan of OMNI Aviation; Ramon Mariñas of Bienvenidos Travel and Tours; Wilburt Wong of QBBBakery; Adrian Cruz, HRM alumnus; and Gian Carlo Galarosa, Tourism Management alumnus.
