From August 28 to September 1, 2025, University of Batangas (UB) Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management (BSIHM) students Jerome Cruz, Edlyn Macaraig, and Lady Francine Rosita earned 1st Place (Gold Medalist) in the COCO Quiz Bee at COCOlinarya Turismo 2025, held at the Mega Trade Hall, SM Megamall.
“Even though we had months of preparation for this competition, we really couldn’t predict the questions,” Mr. Cruz recalled. Ms. Macaraig added, “The pressure we felt earlier actually motivated us to push forward and stay optimistic.”
The team drew strength from experience as well. “This is not the first time that the three of us competed as a team at the national level,” Mr. Cruz explained, recalling their 4th place finish in the National Food Showdown at UB Lipa City.
Throughout their preparation, Ms. Macaraig prayed for victory, believing this would be their last competition. Her prayer was answered when the team claimed the gold. “Do not stop until you are proud,” Ms. Rosita affirmed.
Their coach, Mrs. Shiela C. Posugac, MBA, the Program Head of BSIHM, mentored the students and sharpened their knowledge and skills for the competition. The UB College of Business, Accountancy, and Hospitality Management (CBAHM) and the Association of International Hospitality Management Students (AIHMS)–the official student organization of BSIHM–proudly celebrate this feat, which showcases the students’ competence and excellence in academic competitions.