This year’s 3rd Philippine International Tourism and Hospitality Research Conference (PITH-ReCon) External Conference brought together academic institutions, educators, and young researchers from all around the globe yet again to highlight the potential of tourism and hospitality. The conference was held on April 23, 2025 at the Education Auditorium in the Albertus Magnus Building, with the theme, “Tourism and Hospitality: Drivers of Peace and Stability.” This year’s external conference focused on defining peace and how valuable it is to our world, to different cultures, and to people overall.
As the 3rd PITH-ReCon officially commenced, three distinguished speakers welcomed the participants with their invaluable knowledge. Rev. Fr. Reynor E. Munsayac, O.P. (Executive Vice President, Colegio de San Juan de Letran Bataan Campus) began with the Context of Tourism and Hospitality in Peace and Stability, followed by Ms. Rahima M. Solaiman (Chief, Halal Division, Bureau of Muslim Economic Affairs, National Commission on Muslim Filipinos) who spoke about Halal Tourism: The Growth and Development of Halal Industry in the Philippines, and finally, PMAJ France Ramos (Public Information Officer, Philippine National Police) ended with Tourist Safety and Security in Tourist Destination, saying that tourist security is a national priority and that the PNP takes pride in safeguarding lives.
There were 26 participating colleges and universities that came together to share their voices and visions from across the country and beyond, submitting a total of 44 abstracts altogether for this year’s PITH-ReCon and showed an admirable commitment to exploring tourism and hospitality as agents of peace and stability.
Participants whose work showed academic excellence, creativity, and alignment with the theme, “Tourism and Hospitality: Drivers of Peace and Stability,” were given distinctions to honor exceptional contributions in Tourism Management and Hospitality Management, at both the Professional and Undergraduate levels.
Overall Best Manuscript (Tourism Management)
Professional Level: “Virtual Reality Marketing: Its Potential and Performance in Enhancing Tourist Experiences” by Dr. Nirupama and Mr. Donald James Dsouza from Nitte Institute of Hospitality Services, Nitte (Deemed to be University)
Undergraduate Level: “Perspective of Students on Sign Language and Inclusive Tourism: A Basis for Curriculum Development” by Crystal Quim C. Diwa and Ihna S. Andaya from University of Perpetual Help System Laguna-Isabela Campus
Overall Best Manuscript (Hospitality Management)
Professional Level: “Love and Breakup: Student Experiences in Hospitality In-Campus Practicum” by Nathaniel H. Daya from Leyte Normal University
Undergraduate Level: “Exploring the Enduring Legacy of Pinais Cuisine” by Alesandro Gabriel S. De Lumban, Monica R. Delos Santos, Mica Ella R. Domingo, and Dr. Edgar Allan DC. Mendoza from Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Mesa, Manila and University of the Philippines Diliman
Overall Best Oral Presentation (Tourism Management)
Professional Level: “The Alphabet of Scaling G2: Perspectives of Local Mountaineers on Perceived Risks, Tourist Satisfaction and Experience at Mount Guiting-Guiting in Sibuyan Island” by Turner Evon F. de Torres, MSTHM and Geronio G. Ulayao from Romblon State University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde
Undergraduate Level: “One Town, One Product: Municipal Tourism Officers’ Assessment of Challenges, Effectiveness, and Marketability in the Province of Iloilo” by John Benrex S. Caldina, Roy Lynn G. Hibionada, Beah T. Loquillano, Jean Rose I. Rosos, Chelsea Diane D. Salarda, and Leigh Lawrence Ray D. Ikalina, MHM, CGSP from University of San Agustin, Iloilo City, Philippines
Overall Best Oral Presentation (Hospitality Management)
Professional Level: “From Waste to Worth: Harnessing Behavioral Science to Promote Food Donation and Reduce Household Waste” by Dr. Nirupama and Mr. Donald James Dsouza from Nitte Institute of Hospitality Services, Nitte (Deemed to be University)
Undergraduate Level: “Exploring the Artisanal Salt in the Philippines: The Case of Asin sa Buy-o” by Ransfield T. Abing, Rosalinda C. Anceno, Edison B. Bumatay, Kathleen Apilado, and Dr. Edgar Allan DC. Mendoza from Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Mesa, Manila, Jose Rizal University, and University of the Philippines Diliman
Best Poster Presentation
“Exploring the Enduring Legacy of Pinais Cuisine” by Alesandro Gabriel S. De Lumban, Monica R. Delos Santos, Mica Ella R. Domingo, and Dr. Edgar Allan DC. Mendoza from Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Mesa, Manila and University of the Philippines Diliman
Beyond recognizing individual achievement, the honoring of these outstanding works demonstrates the excellent standard of research being carried out in Philippine academics surrounding tourism and hospitality. These academics’ commitment and enthusiasm greatly contribute to the development of the industry by tackling critical issues and establishing the framework for innovative and sustainable practices. Every study presented is a step toward raising the industry up to global standards and impacting its future globally.
The next chapter begins with the 4th Philippine International Tourism and Hospitality Research Conference, with the theme “Sustainable Transformation Through Tourism and Hospitality Development.”, which will be held on April 22 to 24, 2026 (Wednesday to Friday). The momentum continues, we are only at the start towards a sustainable and innovative industry.
