HK students go on immersion in Manila
Students of the Hong Kong-based Chong Gene Hang College (CGHC) recently participated in academic and cultural exchange programs to enrich their knowledge and skills in the field of tourism and hospitality. It was organized by the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management (SHRIM) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.
Built in 1971 as the first secondary school in Chai Wan, CGHC is managed by the De La Salle Brothers in Hong Kong. Today, it is a government-aided Catholic institution which fosters humanistic and Christian education, with Dennis Magbanua FSC at the helm.
The five-day series of activities granted 19 senior high school (SHS) learners from CGHC an enlightening opportunity to immerse themselves in a different intellectual environment and gain international exposure that will be instrumental to develop a global perspective.
Accompanied by their principal and three faculty members, the participants engaged in practical training in the areas of front office, housekeeping, and food and beverage services.
SHRIM International Hospitality Management chair Paolo Sumera spearheaded the group’s immersive experience in the front office and guest service. Benilde alumnus and faculty Aldrin Regnim handled the housekeeping classes, while Bar Management professors Gio Racelis and Karl Rivera held workshops on coffee and tea appreciation, as well as mocktail or flairtending, among other topics.
The guests interacted with the host’s SHRIM and SHS students and shared a meal with the De La Salle Brothers. They also explored the campus grounds, particularly The Atrium @ Benilde, Design and Arts Building, and Angelo King International Center.
The visiting delegates went on a heritage tour around Manila via a Hop-On Hop-Off bus and visited Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo, a food art display museum which featured interactive gastronomy-themed installations of regional dishes. They likewise witnessed colorful Filipino traditions and festival dances. Dining and shopping within the city were also part of the experiential learning’s itinerary.
Hotel Benilde Maison De La Salle served as their home during the trip.
