The Junior Tourism and Hospitality Management Association of the Philippines (JTHMAP) – Cagayan Valley Region conducted its Regional Membership Caravan and Seminar on April 30, 2025, via Zoom, bringing together tourism and hospitality students and professionals from across the region. With the theme “Voices That Connect, Ideas That Inspire: The Role of Communication and Creative Connection in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry,” the event highlighted the essential roles of communication and creativity in driving guest satisfaction, cultural connection, and industry innovation. 

Spearheaded by Ms. Nicole Ann A. Belmil, Regional Director of JTHMAP, alongside Mr. Johan Xian Tumaneng, President of JTHMAP Region 2, and Ms. Rose Ann San Andres, Vice President of JTHMAP Region 2, the event reflected the team’s commitment to promoting professional development and strengthening regional cooperation. The organizers were led by their adviser, Mr. John Michael C. Ibarra.

The first session, “Communication: The Language of Global Tourism and Hospitality,” was presented by Dr. Troy Alexander G. Miano, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Region 2. He emphasized the role of effective and cross-cultural communication in enhancing guest experiences, building networks, and strengthening brand identity.

In the second session, “Creative Connections: Tourism, Hospitality, and the Creative Industries,” Mr. Mark Ian J. Soriano, owner of RoamPlaces Travel and Tours and part-time faculty at Saint Mary’s University, discussed how creative industries like media, design, and culture influence tourism marketing. He encouraged students to use innovation and artistic expression to elevate guest engagement and expand career opportunities.

This virtual event served as an opportunity to inform participants about vacant leadership positions within the JTHMAP Region 2, encouraging active participation in the organization’s network and development. The seminar aimed to strengthen communication skills, promote creative collaboration, and prepare future professionals for a competitive and evolving industry.

This initiative aligns with several United Nations Tourism’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by promoting inclusive learning, career readiness, and inter-institutional cooperation in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

By hosting the event online, JTHMAP Cagayan Valley Region made the seminar more accessible to students and educators regardless of location. The 2025 Regional Membership Caravan and Seminar became a platform for learning, leadership, and connection—reminding all participants that in the dynamic fields of tourism and hospitality, strong voices and creative ideas are the keys to success.

Written by: Ms. Nicole Ann A. Belmil