Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Students from the College of Human Ecology, Department of Hospitality Management of Central Mindanao University (CMU), have commenced their international On-the-Job Training (OJT) in Thailand under the Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP).
A total of 34 students are being deployed in four batches to internationally recognized hotel partners, including Ramada, The Slate, Radisson, Pullman, Rembrandt, and Novotel. The first batch was deployed in February 2026, with all participants expected to complete the required 600 hours of training by June 2026.
The partner establishments are known for high standards in hospitality service, providing students with exposure to global industry practices. The program aims to strengthen competencies in hotel operations, customer service, and cross-cultural communication through hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Dr. Rubie A. Arroyo, OJT Coordinator and Adviser, said the initiative aligns CMU’s training with global hospitality standards. “By providing both international and local placements, we allow students to develop practical skills and gain exposure to diverse work environments, preparing them to become globally competitive professionals,” she said.
In an online interview, students shared that the international OJT provided both challenges and meaningful learning experiences as they transitioned from classroom learning to real-world practice.
Ms. Angel Mae Manarog, assigned to the kitchen of a hotel’s main restaurant, described the experience as both demanding and fulfilling. “Being assigned to the kitchen of the main restaurant was both challenging and rewarding, as it exposed me to a fast-paced, busy, and physically demanding setting,” she said.
Despite the pressure and long hours, she noted that guest appreciation was a strong motivator. “I found the experience fulfilling, particularly when guests appreciated the food and service, which motivated me to do my best,” Ms. Manarog added.
She also shared that language barriers and adapting to different personalities and work styles challenged her communication skills and patience, ultimately helping her become more confident and resilient.
Meanwhile, Mr. Rjay S. Lampa said he initially expected a more structured training environment where he could directly apply classroom theories, but found the industry more complex than anticipated. “The reality was far more complex,” he said, citing the challenges of working in a multilingual environment.
“The most significant challenge was the multilingual environment… It taught me that communication is about more than just words—it’s about patience, non-verbal cues, and the effort to bridge cultural gaps,” he emphasized.
Mr. Lampa added that the fast-paced nature of the industry required more than technical knowledge. “Technical skills are only half the battle; the other half is leadership, grit, and the initiative to solve problems,” he said, describing the experience as a challenging but rewarding transition into a global professional setting.
The deployment of CMU students to Thailand reflects the University’s continuing efforts toward internationalization while supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). [Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from Dr. Rubie A. Arroyo]
