UP Diliman, Quezon City – October 15, 2025. The University of Batangas Lipa City (UBLC) once again showcased its commitment to excellence and leadership as students from the College of Management and Tourism (CMT) emerged as finalists and national representatives in the JTHMAP Bootcamp and J-List 2025, a two-day national event hosted by the Junior Tourism and Hospitality Management Association of the Philippines (JTHMAP) at the Student Union Building, University of the Philippines – Diliman.
Bringing together promising tourism and hospitality leaders from across the country, the event carried the themes “Thrive and Lead: Navigating Excellence for Future Leaders in Hospitality and Tourism” and “Sustainovate: Forging Sustainable and Experiential Pathways in Tourism through Research and Practice.” It provided a platform for delegates to strengthen their leadership, sustainability, and innovation skills through workshops, plenaries, and research-centered activities.
Representing UBLC with pride, third-year BS Hospitality Management student June Christian E. Dimaculangan earned recognition as one of the Top 5 Finalists in J-List 2025, while Arkin H. Pagcaliwangan and Francia Marie R. Gaite also participated as official delegates. Meanwhile, second-year students Kent Kirby D. Abgelina, Sergio Angelo Q. Oyos, and Janice Kate E. Cañedo represented the University in Bootcamp 2025, where they were named among the Top 15 Finalists, reflecting UBLC’s strong presence among the country’s best young leaders in hospitality and tourism.
Throughout the program, delegates engaged in interactive sessions designed to enhance leadership capacity and promote sustainable practices. Highlights included the Eco-Link Mapping Activity, which emphasized community engagement in tourism, and a leadership development workshop led by Ms. Margarette Kate Co, featuring the HEART Method (Hear, Empathize, Acknowledge, Respond, Think). Distinguished speakers such as Dr. Mary Anne Ramos-Tumanan, Mr. Jojo M. Villamin, Ms. Alyssa “Ligaya” Sanchez, and Ms. Kiana shared valuable insights on responsible tourism, brand leadership, and youth empowerment.
In an interview, the UBLC delegates reflected on the national experience. “It was a really meaningful and transformative experience,” shared Arkin Pagcaliwangan. “It allowed us to connect with fellow hospitality and tourism students and professionals from various universities across the country. Through the activities and workshops, I gained deeper insight into leadership, teamwork, and the importance of adaptability in the industry. One of the key takeaways was the significance of camaraderie – working together as a team and supporting one another to achieve a common goal.”
The representatives also highlighted a memorable message from Ms. Ligaya, who reminded participants: “If you’re not passionate about it, don’t do it, because responsibility requires hard work.” The UBLC delegates reflected that true leadership and service in hospitality stem from genuine passion and dedication.
When asked about the experience and what could be replicated in UBLC, the students expressed enthusiasm for promoting collaboration. “It’s great to have an event or program where other universities are invited. You can all come together as tourism or hospitality students – collaboration really makes the experience enriching,” they shared.
Meanwhile, the Bootcamp participants described their experience as equally rewarding. “At the Bootcamp, we conducted seminars and team-building activities that strengthened our sense of unity. The top 15 will serve as apprentices for the newly elected officers of JTHMAP, which gives us a valuable opportunity to be trained and mentored under national committees,” explained Abgelina.
The interview concluded with a message of inspiration for future UBians aspiring to join the hospitality and tourism programs. “There are so many opportunities in hospitality and tourism,” shared Cañedo. “Your skills are not limited – you can grow, connect, and find your place in this dynamic field. The University of Batangas Lipa City provides a nurturing environment that helps you discover who you are and what you want to do, not only for the future but also right now.”
Oyos added, “You don’t have to be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone. Here in UBLC, you’ll be surrounded by good people who will help you grow and believe in what you can do.”
The event concluded with advocacy presentations and reflection sessions, where delegates expressed their commitment to responsible tourism, community development, and sustainable hospitality. UBLC’s active participation in JTHMAP Bootcamp and J-List 2025 reinforces the University’s steadfast dedication to developing globally competitive, service-driven professionals who embody the true essence of leadership with purpose, integrity, and compassion. Guided by its mission to uphold excellence and social responsibility, UB Lipa continues to inspire future leaders who champion innovation, sustainability, and meaningful change in the tourism and hospitality industry.