28/03/2026
| NEWS-FEATURE
Student-researchers redefine hospitality and tourism excellence at Inaugural Research Symposium
In the hospitality industry, the transition from classroom theory to evidence-based practice often requires more than just a textbook. On March 11, 2026, the National University – Dasmariñas (NUD) Function Hall was transformed into a professional forum for the TatakCavitENYU: 1st Hospitality and Tourism Research Seminar and Symposium.
Organized by Galihaya Events, a student-led organization, the 12-hour event aimed to bridge the gap between academic research and industry application. The name "Galihaya" itself, derived from the Filipino words Galing (Excellence), Likha (Creation), and Husay (Skill), reflects the organizers' intent to equip students with the necessary research skills for the hospitality and tourism sectors.
The symposium was marked by a strict adherence to professional protocols. Attendees from Dr. Yanga’s College, Cavite State University - Indang, and various National University campuses, including Fairview, Manila, and host-campus, Dasmarinas, arrived in full tourism and hospitality uniforms. The venue was structured to mirror a high-end hospitality environment, featuring assigned table seating with identification nameplates and a dedicated registration committee.
The program commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the university’s Demo Kitchen. Following the opening remarks by Mr. Ramon L. Rodriguez and an inspirational message from Ms. Catherine D. Lagadia, the morning session featured a series of plenary talks aimed at bridging academic theory with industry practice.
Meanwhile, Dr. Antonino Alejandro delivered a lecture entitled "Redefining Service Excellence through Research: Insights that Drive Operational Efficiency and Guest Satisfaction," emphasizing data-driven strategies in the hospitality sector, and addressing operational efficiency.
Yet beyond the lectures, the heart of Galihaya lay in its mission: to cultivate students who are not only knowledgeable but industry-ready.
“The main goal of the event from Galihaya is to reach out the skills of the students from the research and hospitality industry to involve them to be more productive and more ready on the industry itself,” Marc Cariaga, the Secretariat of Galihaya explained. His statement underscored the event’s deeper purpose—not just to inform, but to transform student capability into professional readiness.
Addressing modern technological shifts, Ms. Helga Marie Cabalre discussed ethical considerations in the industry, focusing on research integrity and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence. Mr. Keneth C. De Gracia also served as a plenary speaker, providing further industry perspectives for the attendees.
The afternoon transitioned into a competitive format, where student-researchers presented their findings across three categories.
In the first category, Francis R. Neri secured the first place across all three-assessment metrics: Best Oral Presentation, Abstract, and Research Paper. His study examined "Nightscapes of Southeast Asia" through YouTube commentary on Astro tourism videos. Rhovie Vera S. Bermillo followed in second place for her research on inclusive employment practices for employees with diverse abilities.
In the second category, Hannah Faye C. Cabatuando took the top spot for her investigation into the consumer acceptability of edible insects as a potential food source in ethnic restaurants. Vanz Jerian V. Tagavilla placed second with a study on tourism promotional videos and destination image in Norzagaray, Bulacan.
Ray Van Austin L. Parulan led the third and final category, presenting a strategic analysis of digital marketing among selected restaurants in Bulacan.
In the professional division, Mikah Conwi was awarded first place for Best Oral Presentation. However, Kristine B. Baluyot secured the top spot in both the Abstract and Research Paper categories for her work on travel motivation and behavioral intentions regarding farm destinations in Cavite.
The symposium concluded with a formal awarding ceremony following a two-and-a-half-hour panel deliberation. The Evaluation and Awards Committee recognized the contributions of both the presenters and the panelists.
Dean Laila D. Malabanan delivered the closing remarks to mark the end of the proceedings. The organizers noted that the event was designed to provide a platform for practical discussion on the future of the hospitality and tourism sectors.
This inaugural event does not conclude with applause, as it continues in every student who leaves the hall more equipped, more aware, and more prepared to redefine the standards of hospitality and tourism in the years ahead.
Written by Princess Santiago
Photo Captured by Karylle Azusano
