FHTM Holds Historic First-Ever Pinning Ceremony for OJT Students

The Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management (FHTM) proudly marked a historic milestone by successfully conducting its first-ever Pinning Ceremony for On-The-Job Training (OJT) students on January 14 at the SLSU Learning Commons – Mini Theatre, with the inspiring theme “World of Opportunities.”

 

The day opened with the morning batch of Tourism Management students, who arrived hand in hand with their parents and guardians. The venue was filled with warmth, pride, and emotion as families joined the ceremonial parade, a powerful symbol of support, love, and shared triumph. The program formally commenced with a prayer, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the SLSU Hymn, setting a solemn yet hopeful atmosphere for the event.

 

Delivering the welcome remarks, Dr. Constantino G. Medilo, Jr., Vice-President for Academic Affairs, inspired the students as they prepared to enter the professional world. “The pin you receive today is a symbol of your readiness for responsibility. It represents the expectation that you will perform with professionalism, discipline, service, excellence, and accountability, values that are non-negotiable in the real world,” He emphasized. He further reminded students that the pin is not just a name badge, but a reflection of their character and integrity.

 

Adding to the inspiration, Mr. Roger Deligro, an HRTM alumnus (Batch 2011), shared his journey and offered heartfelt advice to the students, “Use this opportunity to observe, ask questions, and learn from everyone around you. OJT is not just a requirement; it is the foundation of your future profession,” He said, encouraging them to make the most of every experience. The ceremony also paid tribute to the FHTM faculty, recognizing their dedication and vital role in shaping the students’ success.

 

The emotional centerpiece of the event was the pinning ceremony, where parents, the students’ first teachers and strongest pillars,personally pinned the badges on their children. Students, in turn, expressed their gratitude through heartfelt messages, acknowledging the sacrifices and unwavering support of their families.

 

A touching message from a parent captured the spirit of the day: “Today is not just about the pin you receive. Today is about the journey you survived. Sa among nga anak, kaninyo among mga anak, karun nga adlaw dako kaayo mig garbo kaninyo. We witnessed your sleepless nights, your struggles, your exhaustion,  and your courage to keep going.”

 

Ms. Juana Marie Amplayo, a BSTM student and incoming OJT trainee, led the Pledge of Commitment, as students vowed to uphold professionalism, loyalty, and responsibility. Tokens of appreciation were then presented to parents, drawing tears of joy and pride across the hall.

 

The morning program concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Dinah F. Catamco, FHTM Dean, who reminded the students to carry compassion, readiness, and accountability as they step into the industry. A celebratory photo session followed, capturing memories of this unforgettable milestone.

 

 

The celebration continued in the afternoon with the Hospitality Management students at 1:00 PM, maintaining the same theme of hope and opportunity. The afternoon batch entered the venue in a joyful parade, walking arm-in-arm with their parents,  smiles reflecting both gratitude and anticipation for the journey ahead.

 

Once again, Dr. Constantino G. Medilo, Jr. delivered inspiring remarks, emphasizing the importance of the occasion: “This ceremony marks a decisive transition in your academic journey. It is a formal declaration that you are now prepared to enter the industry. Professionalism, service culture, and guest relations define your success.”

 

The inspirational message was delivered by Mr. Rocky Vincent Cuevas, FHTM alumnus (Batch 2018), who reminded students, “Humble yourselves enough to learn, because growth happens in unfamiliar situations.” Faculty members were recognized for their continued dedication before the program's highlight, the pinning ceremony, where parents once again placed the badges on their children with pride and affection.

 

Representing the parents, Mr. William V. Albaracin, father of Ms. Jayna Albaracin, warmly expressed, “Bag-o pa lang mi nagtan-aw ninyo nga nag-eskwela, ug karon andam na mo musulod sa industriya.” Reflecting on how close the students are to achieving their dreams. Ms. Jyna Erana Albaracin, a BSHM student, led the afternoon Pledge of Commitment, reaffirming the students’ dedication to excellence and responsibility.

 

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Dinah F. Catamco, who expressed immense pride in the faculty and students. Families embraced, photos were taken, and the atmosphere was filled with celebration and hope.

 

 

This historic pinning ceremony symbolizes not only the students’ readiness for On-the-Job Training but also the beginning of their transformation into future leaders of the hospitality and tourism industry. With the support of their families, mentors, and institution, the students of FHTM now step forward into their World of Opportunities, confident, prepared, and inspired.