The Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST) – College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) has recently led a two-day seminar on Public Speaking and Basic Flight Attendant Training through its Regional Extension Program. The project is considered a major milestone, as it is the first of its kind in the history of EARIST. The seminar was in collaboration with Kabankalan Catholic College, Inc. (KCC) - College of Management, Accountancy and Tourism (CMAT) in Negros Occidental.

The highly informative sessions were facilitated by Bong Quintana, CHTM dean Maria Rhoda D. Dinaga, program chair for Extension Services Dr. Tenie P. Lirazan, and EARIST alumni representative John Erwin Matol. Their joint effort and expertise have enhanced the skills of the participants using interactive discussions, live demonstrations, and hands-on exercises.

Bong joined the faculty of EARIST in December 2023. He is currently teaching Event Management and Quality Service Management to undergraduate students. “The best part of being a teacher is the time I spend with my students because we get to exchange stories and experiences. I always wish the best for my students, whether they venture into hospitality, tourism, or whatever endeavor they choose for themselves,” he shared.

According to Bong, he receives useful tips from Boy Abunda, his longtime partner, on public speaking and conducting seminars, which he applies during class lectures and academic engagements beyond the campus. “Boy always reminds me to teach from the heart and carry my stories with me. He says never to lose grip on reality and to hold fast to my core.”

The topic on the first day of the seminar was “Public Speaking: Mastering the Art of Talk,” which aimed to enhance participants’ communication skills, boost their confidence, and master the art of delivering messages with clarity and impact. The engaging session was attended by the CMAT Council, BS Tourism Management, BSED English, The Chronicle, The Herald, and chosen elementary pupils.

An informative seminar on “Basic Flight Attendant Training Program” was held the next day. BS Tourism Management and ABM students gained knowledge about the discipline, grace, and professionalism of a flight attendant if they wish to pursue this career in the aviation industry. Bong shared his personal experience as a former Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight attendant from the late 80s to the late 90s. “It was my first full-time job at 21 years old. It was a phase in my life that, until today, would bring back excitement in my life,” he said.

According to Bong, his speaking engagement at Kabankalan Catholic College, Inc. was extra special. “It marked the first regional extension project for my institute, EARIST. I served as the project leader and the resource person during the seminar. The project progressed efficiently with the support and guidance of our CHTM dean, Dr. Maria Rhoda Dinaga; our college secretary, Dr. Tenie Lirazan; and our EARIST alumni representative, John Erwin Matol. We have built great teamwork, which made the recent academic venture a success. I’m truly grateful to them.”

Bong looks forward to more wonderful years as part of EARIST’s faculty. His personal development plans include graduating with a doctorate degree in Business Administration, working on future regional and local extension projects, and teaching the undergraduate students of his beloved alma mater.

The recent two-day seminar is only the beginning of more collaborative initiatives of EARIST-CHTM’s Regional Extension Program. The strong partnership it created with KCC-CMAT symbolizes the steadfast commitment of the two educational institutions to provide their students with the important skills and knowledge they will need as future leaders in the field of tourism and hospitality. It is a testament to EARIST’s strong commitment to academic extension and CMAT’s dedication to holistic education.