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CPU CHM holds Dedication and Send-Off Ceremony for CHM students bound for international internship

by | Dec 20, 2024 | Centralian Link

By Mikee Natinga Norico


The 41 fourth-year CHM students pose for a group photo together with Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Prof. Ma. Medalla P. Baliao, and Prof. Ismael Almajar Jr. during the dedication and send-off ceremony.

Central Philippine University College of Hospitality Management (CPU-CHM) held a heartwarming dedication and send-off ceremony on December 17, 2024, for 41 fourth-year CHM students set to embark on a six-month Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP) in the Kingdom of Thailand. Organized by the CHM SIAP Office, the event took place at the Fine Dining Room, with notable attendees including CHM Dean Medalla P. Baliao, Prof. Ismael Almajar Jr., MBM, Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, as well as faculty members and staff.

The students will intern at prestigious high-end properties in Phuket and Krabi, Thailand, specializing in various roles such as housekeeping, front office, kitchen and food and beverage, and guest relations. Running until June 2025, this international internship program provides a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience in a multicultural environment.

Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of the CPU Office of Communications, delivered an inspiring message rooted in Numbers 6:24–26: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.” He reminded the students that their journey has already been planned by the Lord, assuring them of His guidance and protection as they face challenges in a foreign land.

Prof. Ma. Medalla P. Baliao, College of Hospitality Management Dean, emphasized the importance of professionalism and humility in the workplace, particularly in a multicultural setting. She encouraged the students to value punctuality, perform their tasks diligently, and appreciate the sacrifices of their parents, urging them to excel in their roles as a way of giving back. “You will be trained in a first-class environment,” Dean Baliao remarked, highlighting the exceptional opportunities awaiting the students in Thailand’s high-end hotels and resorts.

To ensure the students are well-prepared for the challenges of interning abroad, CPU adheres to the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) CMO No. 10, s. 2023, which strengthens the SIAP framework. This guarantees that all students are academically qualified, well-documented, and equipped to thrive in a multicultural environment. The dedication ceremony served as both a spiritual and emotional send-off, reflecting CPU’s commitment to holistic education that integrates faith and learning.

Prof. Ismael Almajar Jr., MBM, a faculty member and CHM Travel and SIAP Coordinator, played a crucial role in organizing the event. He reminded the students to embody the Central Spirit as they represent CPU on the international stage. “The dedication ceremony highlights the importance of seeking the Lord’s protection and guidance as they embark on this journey,” Prof. Almajar shared.

The event underscored CPU’s dedication to providing transformative educational experiences that prepare students for global opportunities. As the 41 CHM students head to Thailand, they carry with them not only the skills and knowledge gained from CPU but also the values and faith that will guide them in their endeavors abroad.