Inclusive tourism, hospitality scholarship

The Far Eastern University-Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (ITHM) conducted “Brave Fronts: Breaking Barriers through Inclusive and Diverse Scholastic Tourism and Hospitality Research” symposium last Feb. 13 at the ENB Mini Auditorium.  

This research symposium gathered students and faculty members to highlight the importance of advancing the tourism and hospitality industry. 

Organized by the MICE Class through Tuklas Events Co., it aimed to promote inclusive and diverse perspectives in scholastic research while encouraging students to engage in academic inquiry related to tourism and hospitality. 

In her opening message, Chrisdie Flores-Tongol, department chair of ITHM, emphasized the role of research in driving innovation, sustainability, and industry relevance. She encouraged students to view research not merely as an academic requirement but as a meaningful tool that can contribute to the development of the field. 

The symposium featured guest speakers Ryan Joseph G. Calinao of FEU and Jojo M. Villamin from Polytechnic University of the Philippines, who shared insights on research practices and perspectives in tourism and hospitality studies. Their sessions encouraged students to explore different approaches to scholarly work and to consider how research can contribute to addressing real-world challenges within the industry. 

An open forum followed the discussions, allowing students to ask questions and exchange ideas with the speakers. The dialogue encouraged participants to reflect on their own research interests and the ways their studies could contribute to industry development. 

The event concluded with closing remarks from Vanessa Ngo, associate department chair for Tourism, who encouraged students to remain curious and committed in pursuing research that can bring meaningful impact to the field. 

“Many people think that studying in ITHM is only about service and operations, but this symposium reminded us that research is also a big part of the field. Through research, we can study trends, understand travelers’ experiences, and propose ideas that can help the hospitality industry grow and improve,” one attendee said.  

“It showed us that beyond learning how to serve guests, we are also trained to analyze issues, conduct studies, and contribute knowledge that can shape the future of the industry,” another participant added.  

Through initiatives such as the research symposium, ITHM continues to strengthen its culture of research and academic engagement, encouraging students to produce scholarship that supports innovation and long-term development in the tourism and hospitality sector. 

To learn more about the IHM program offerings, please visit: https://www.feu.edu.ph/institute-of-tourism-and-hotel-management/