The Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (MIHCA) reinforced its standing as the premier training institution for the cruise and hospitality industry by organizing the successful Cruise Hospitality Career Convention 2025 aboard Costa Serena from March 6 to 11. Nearly 100 students from MIHCA’s Manila, Mandaluyong, and Cebu campuses, along with participants from universities across the Philippines, gained firsthand experience of life at sea while engaging with industry leaders.
The convention featured in-depth discussions on the latest trends in hospitality, sustainability, and technological advancements shaping the cruise sector. Notable speakers from Costa Cruises and Princess Cruises’ management team graced the event. The topics covered included the importance of service excellence, the multi-cultural environment on the cruise ship, innovations in the cruise industry, and training and development for career growth.
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, in a video message, emphasized the value of hands-on training, stating, “Right skills lead to excellent service, and nothing hones excellence better than top-notch training.”
The event also showcased MIHCA’s role in shaping industry professionals, as alumni shared how its training programs helped them secure careers with international cruise lines. Their stories offered a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of working in the hospitality industry.
MIHCA President Paolo Guevara then expressed gratitude to Costa Serena’s management and crew for their support in making the convention possible. He also commended the students for their enthusiasm and readiness to take on global opportunities in hospitality.
With over two decades of strong partnership, and MIHCA as the only Costa Campus in the Philippines, the convention served as a platform to reaffirm Costa Cruises’ commitment to the training, development, and recruitment of Filipino seafarers.
Beyond providing industry exposure, the convention reaffirmed MIHCA’s role in producing job-ready professionals and fostering strong industry partnerships. As the demand for skilled hospitality workers grows, MIHCA remains committed to equipping Filipino talent with world-class training and opening doors to global career opportunities.
