SMU-HTM Achieves 100% CGSP Passing Rate, Elevating Industry-Ready Hospitality Professionals
Excellence continues to define the Hospitality and Tourism Management Department of Saint Mary’s University (SMU-HTM) as 4th year students achieve a remarkable 100% passing rate in the internationally recognized Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) certification. This milestone positions SMU-HTM learners among the most industry-ready hospitality professionals, fully equipped to meet global standards and deliver exceptional service anywhere in the world.
A total of 69 students earned the prestigious designation — 29 from the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) and 40 from the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM). The CGSP credential was certified by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, co-certified by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, and administered in the Philippines by Asia World Hospitality.
After completing an intensive three-day training program, participants took the examinations on February 27, 2026 and March 4, 2026, earning the distinguished international title of Certified Guest Service Professional. This certification is globally recognized as a benchmark of excellence in guest service and professional conduct.
This achievement goes beyond academic success. It reflects the students’ readiness to excel in the global hospitality and tourism industry by combining technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and a service mindset. The milestone demonstrates SMU-HTM’s commitment to industry-aligned education, nurturing individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also confident, professional, and capable of creating memorable guest experiences.
The accomplishment also aligns with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, which promotes inclusive and equitable education, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, which emphasizes employability and economic empowerment through globally recognized skills. By integrating international certifications into the curriculum, SMU-HTM ensures that students are prepared to compete and thrive in a rapidly evolving global workforce.
Guided by the principle, “We Inspire, Innovate, and Influence,” SMU-HTM continues to set the benchmark for hospitality and tourism education. As 4th year students move toward the next chapter of their professional journey, they carry more than academic achievements — they hold a globally recognized credential that reflects competence, confidence, and dedication to excellence. As Pat Riley wisely said, “Excellence is the gradual result of always striving to do better.”
This 100% CGSP passing rate is not just a number — it is a testament to the department’s unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and the cultivation of professionals ready to make a lasting impact in the hospitality and tourism industry.
SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)
Written by: Nicole Ann A. Belmil (BSTM 4)
