24 February 2026
The Vateliens in Progress (VIP), student leaders from the International Hospitality Management program, joined SpeakerCon 2026 at SPACE, One Ayala last February 11. They attended the event with their faculty adviser Mr. Wilbert Ong, Dean Marie Paz Castro of SHRIM, and Chancellor Benhur Ong.
SpeakerCon brought together leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives to talk about communication and leadership in today’s digital world. The VIP students listened to speakers including Francis Kong, Mark Schaefer, Ida Tiongson, Inka Magnaye, Kia Abrera, Alan Reyes, Eri Neeman, and Donald Lim.
The experience gave the students a chance to learn directly from professionals who shared ideas on authentic communication, branding, and innovation. These lessons connect closely to the BS-IHM program, which prepares students to manage hotels, restaurants, and institutions with strong leadership and global standards.
Outside the classroom, BS-IHM students join activities that put their learning into practice. They take part in local and international educational tours, such as visits to Bohol, Korea, Thailand, and Paris. They also train through internships in luxury hotels and resorts abroad, including placements in Dubai and the United States. Students can spend a term at a partner Vatel campus through the Marco Polo Program or complete practicum in Vatel Nimes, France. On campus, they gain hands-on experience in Hotel Benilde Maison de La Salle and Vatel Restaurant Manila, where they work with real guests and events.
For the VIP members, the conference was another step in their journey as future hospitality leaders. They gained practical insights that will help them in careers such as events management, hotel operations, and public relations, where communication and leadership are essential.
For more information on Benilde’s undergraduate programs, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
