Tourism students garnered multiple championships and placements during the International Travel Festival (ITF)–7th Tourism Student Day on March 15, 2025, at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in Cebu City.
Chico Abuyen, Marie Franchesca Marcaida, and Chloe June Yu won the championship in the Quiz Bowl Competition. With the help of their coach, Dr. Jannalou Resos, the Carolinian team secured the University’s first-ever championship in the ITF Quiz Bowl Competition, besting nine other schools.
Meanwhile, Therese Carmel Que won the top prize in the Poster-Making Competition. Joining her was Simone Golez, who placed third, with guidance from their coach, Jesalyn Pastorfide.
The following Carolinians also won several awards:
- 2nd Place, Tour Guiding Competition – Michael Rey Mabutas
Coach: Cris Edren Dela Peña
- 2nd Place, ITF Vlogging Competition Part 2 – Kylah Dela Peña
Coach: Cris Edren Dela Peña
- 3rd Place, ITF Dance Palabas Competition – Sean James Cruz (Team Captain and choreographer), Keren Baloran, Justine Belle Cañete, Angel Mae Dalman, Earl John Pitogo, and Franz Nicole Terez
Coach: Dr. Jannalou Resos
The University of San Carlos has consistently excelled in inter-school competitions, including the International Travel Festival–Tourism Student Day, and this year was no exception, adding yet another series of awards to its impressive record.
Other students who competed and represented the university are Giancarlo Nuñeza and Ronulf Javyn Diongzon (Tour Packaging Competition), Jeziel Mae Faelden (Essay Writing Competition), Marie Franz Pilapil (Vlogging Competition), Immanuel Lanz Ylanan (Tour Guiding Competition), and Praise Rency Casiano (Tourism Idol Competition).
The students’ achievements were made possible with the help and support of the participants’ co-students and the faculty members of the Tourism Department who acted as coaches: Cris Edren Dela Peña, Vicente Maravilla, Jesalyn Pastorfide, and Dr. Jannalou Resos. Their unwavering hard work, dedication, and passion for excellence have paid off, further cementing the University of San Carlos’ reputation as a formidable powerhouse in academic competitons.
The remarkable victories at ITF 2025 showcased the talent and resilience of USC students and highlighted the unwavering support of the student body and faculty.
Congratulations to all the winners and participants—your success is a testament to your hard work and the university’s commitment to excellence! Vamos USC!
by Chico Abuyen