SMU HTM

Stay and Learn Program: Cebu and Bohol in Focus

The Stay and Learn Program is more than a journey through destinations; it is an opportunity to understand tourism and hospitality in their real context. In Cebu and Bohol, learning extended beyond lectures as we explored heritage sites, hospitality establishments, and tourism operations that shape the visitor experience.

Each destination offered practical insight into how the industry works. From guest handling and service standards to cultural interpretation and destination management, our students witnessed how tourism professionals bring learning to life in real settings. These experiences allowed them to connect theories learned in class with actual industry practice.

Cebu and Bohol became classrooms without walls, where every stop contributed to our understanding of the field we are preparing for.

The Cebu and Bohol experience served not only as an academic requirement but as a formative step in preparing our students to become competent, responsible, and globally aware tourism professionals.

THE MOMENTS THAT MADE US

More than a practicum. More than a requirement. More than a destination.

Our journey at Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay became a story of growth, resilience, learning, and transformation. Within every challenge was an opportunity to improve. Within every responsibility was a lesson that shaped us into better hospitality professionals.

We are deeply grateful to the leaders, mentors, and team members who welcomed us, guided us, and allowed us to experience the true meaning of service excellence. The knowledge, values, and memories we gained will remain with us long after our internship has ended.

As we move forward toward our future careers, we carry with us the standards, passion, and spirit of hospitality that define the Mövenpick experience.

To our Mövenpick family, thank you for believing in us, growing with us, and creating moments that will stay with us forever.

Because some moments are remembered.

But the best moments shape who we become.

"Beyond the hidden paradise: A journey of growth at Asya"

Our OJT Story at ASYA PREMIER SUITE BORACAY

In the serenity of paradise, we found challenges that inspired us, experiences that shaped us, and memories that will stay with us forever. Every journey begins with a dream, and ours led us to an experience that transformed us beyond the classroom.
Our On-the-Job Training at Asya Premier Suites Boracay was more than just a requirement, it was a journey filled with growth, learning, challenges, achievements, and unforgettable memories. Every task entrusted to us, every guest interaction, and every new experience became an opportunity to develop not only our skills but also our character as future hospitality professionals.

Throughout this journey, we proudly embodied the 3I's of the HTM Department:
𝐖𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞 - by serving with passion, professionalism, and genuine hospitality.

𝐖𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 - by embracing challenges, adapting to new environments, and continuously learning from every experience.

𝐖𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 - by creating meaningful guest experiences and leaving positive impressions through excellent service.

Guided by Saint Mary's University's commitment to being Inspired by Mission, Driven by Excellence, we carried these values in every responsibility entrusted to us. We learned that excellence is not measured by grand achievements alone, but by consistently giving our best, remaining committed to our goals, and striving to make a positive impact wherever we are.

This journey allowed us to transform knowledge into experience, challenges into opportunities, and moments into memories that we will forever cherish. More importantly, it prepared us to step confidently into the hospitality industry with competence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of service excellence.

As this chapter comes to an end, we move forward carrying the lessons we learned, the friendships we built, and the memories we created. Because this was never just about completing an internship it was about becoming the professionals we aspire to be.


2026

Closing a Chapter, Opening New Opportunities

As we officially conclude our On-the-Job Training at Sofia Hotel, we reflect on this journey with gratitude and pride. This experience has provided us with valuable knowledge, practical skills, and meaningful insights that have contributed greatly to our personal and professional growth.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the management and staff of Sofia Hotel for their guidance, support, and for giving us the opportunity to learn in a professional and dynamic environment. The lessons we have gained and the experiences we have shared will remain an important part of our journey as future professionals.

Completing this chapter marks not an ending, but a significant step toward achieving our goals and pursuing excellence in our chosen careers. Thank you, Sofia Hotel, for being part of our growth and success.

Grateful for the experience. Proud of the journey. Excited for what lies ahead.

Words by: Hope Angelica E. Escobar

Learning Beyond Borders, Growing Beyond Expectations

Every lesson we learned in school found its purpose during our OJT at MM Fariñas Travel and Tours. We experienced firsthand how knowledge, dedication, and exceptional service come together in the travel industry, allowing us to transform classroom learning into valuable real-world experience.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the owners, Mr. Rolando Fariñas and Mrs. Irene Fariñas, as well as to our seniors, Ms. Mei Ann Abad and Ms. Shannymae Gumarang. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, guidance, patience, and invaluable industry experiences that helped us grow both personally and professionally.

Beyond the lessons we learned, we were deeply touched by your generosity and kindness. You not only enriched our minds with knowledge and skills but also warmed our hearts through your thoughtful treats and genuine hospitality, making our internship experience even more memorable.

As we continue our journey beyond MM Fariñas Travel and Tours, we will carry with us every lesson learned, every memory shared, and every act of kindness. These experiences will remain lifelong reminders of a chapter that helped shape us into the future tourism professionals we aspire to become.

Words by: Jan Elisha Toledo and Joanna Gumayagay