By Mikee Natinga Norico

CPU’s CHM faculty members, in collaboration with BSTM students, earn recognition at the 2024 ASEAN Multidisciplinary Conference.

The College of Hospitality Management (CHM) faculty members from Central Philippine University (CPU) showcased their research prowess at the 2024 ASEAN Multidisciplinary Conference on Education and Research: Innovating for Sustainable Development Goals. Out of five presented papers, three were awarded the Best Paper Presentation, highlighting the faculty’s commitment to innovative research in alignment with sustainable development.

The conference, held online via Google Meet, focused on fostering multidisciplinary education through research to empower future generations. Faculty members who contributed to this success include Dr. Armando M. Hisuan Jr., the BSHM program coordinator; Dr. Myrna T. Luceño; Professor Ismael A. Almajar Jr.; Professor Maria Patricia S. Bayot; and Professor Denie Erwin W. Tan.

Professor Denie Erwin W. Tan’s paper on festivals, as well as Professor Maria Patricia S. Bayot’s studies on Business-to-Business Innovation and AgriTourism, stood out during the event, receiving recognition as Best Paper Presentations. These research topics align with the Sustainable Development Goals by promoting cultural preservation, fostering community involvement, and addressing climate-related challenges within the tourism sector.

Reflecting on the preparation for the conference, which began during the 2023-2024 school year, Professors Bayot and Tan expressed gratitude towards Dean Baliao and Dr. Armando Hisuan Jr., who supported their participation. “Dr. Hisuan’s encouragement and Dean Baliao’s support allowed us to present at this esteemed conference,” they shared.

Despite facing challenges, particularly with connectivity during the online event, the team’s perseverance paid off, with the recognition of three of their papers coming as a pleasant surprise. “We are overwhelmed and so happy. It was unexpected,” they stated.

Professors Bayot and Tan extended their thanks to the BSTM students—Harvey V. Sutacio, Maria Veronica Escano, and Jirah Dale B. Ferando—whose active participation and contributions were integral to their success.

The team hopes that their research on festivals and agritourism will have a lasting impact on community development, cultural preservation, and addressing environmental issues. As for future plans, they are committed to continuously collaborating with local communities to help them improve and develop.