By CPU-CHM

Training under the CHED-funded STEP-UP Grant equips faculty members from the Dr. Lucio C. Tan College of Hospitality Management (CHM) with industry-based knowledge through the Airline Management and Operations Train-the-Trainer Program in preparation for the Airline Services Management track under the B.S. in Tourism Management program.

CLARK FREEPORT, PAMPANGA — As Central Philippine University continues to strengthen its academic offerings and industry partnerships, two faculty members from the Dr. Lucio C. Tan College of Hospitality Management (CHM) recently completed an intensive training program designed to bring real-world aviation expertise into the classroom.

Asst. Prof. Denie Erwin W. Tan and Dr. Marjoe Karl T. Anacan successfully completed the five-day Airline Management and Operations Train-the-Trainer Program conducted by OMNI Aviation in Clark Freeport, Angeles City, Pampanga. Their participation was made possible through the ₱25-million STEP-UP Grant awarded by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to the College of Hospitality Management.

The training forms part of CHM’s continuing faculty development initiatives and supports preparations for the planned offering of the Airline Services Management track under the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) program.

Throughout the five-day program, Asst. Prof. Tan and Dr. Anacan were exposed to various facets of airline operations through lectures and discussions led by aviation professionals with extensive industry experience. Among the resource speakers were Ms. Lisa E. Cruz, who handled Airline Business Models and Aviation Risk Management; Ms. Odessa C. Khoon, who facilitated sessions on Flight Operations and Crew Management; and Ms. CJ Reid, who discussed Dangerous Goods and Aviation Security, Ground Operations, Airport Logistics, and Maintenance.

The training was further enriched by the lecturers’ professional backgrounds, having previously served with leading international airlines such as Saudia, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. Their firsthand industry experiences provided participants with valuable insights into global airline operations, service standards, and best practices in the aviation sector.

What made the training particularly meaningful was the opportunity to learn from professionals who were once international flight attendants themselves and who have since built successful careers in aviation training and management. Their experiences provided participants with valuable perspectives on the realities of airline operations, the evolving demands of the industry, and the competencies expected of future aviation professionals.

Beyond the technical knowledge gained, the program offered participants a deeper appreciation of the interconnected systems that keep the aviation industry operating safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From understanding airline business strategies to managing flight operations, airport logistics, and aviation security, the training highlighted the importance of integrating industry practices into academic instruction.

For Asst. Prof. Tan and Dr. Anacan, the experience represents an important step in ensuring that future students receive education that reflects current industry standards and expectations. The knowledge, materials, and best practices acquired during the program will be shared through echo seminars and faculty development activities, allowing fellow faculty members and stakeholders to benefit from the training.

As the College of Hospitality Management continues to expand its academic horizons, initiatives such as this demonstrate its commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically prepared but also equipped with industry-relevant knowledge and skills.

The successful completion of the training marks another milestone in CHM’s pursuit of academic excellence and innovation, reinforcing its vision of preparing future tourism and aviation professionals for meaningful careers in a dynamic and globally connected industry.

The training marks an important step as CHM moves forward with its future plans to offer the Airline Services Management major under the B.S. in Tourism Management program.