The University of San Agustin Director of the Center for Strategic Research, Planning, and Development (CSRPD), and a faculty member of the Department of Hospitality Management at the College of Commerce (COC), Mr. Leigh Lawrence Ray D. Ikalina, emerged victorious at a recent national research conference, a joint event between the 9th Tourism and Hospitality Annual Research Convention (THARC) and the 10th Annual Tourism and Hospitality Student Research Conference (ATHSRC). The theme, “Integrating Sustainable Development Goals in Tourism and Hospitality Research: Trends, Issues, and Challenges,” inspired innovative discussions on sustainable practices in the field.
Presenting on behalf of his research advisees, Mr. Ikalina showcased their study entitled “Adaptive Architecture: Knowledge and Acceptability among Graduating BS Tourism Management Students in Iloilo City, Philippines.” The paper presented the adaptive reuse or adaptive architecture initiatives and strategies of Iloilo City, specifically its heritage infrastructure, having been declared as a Cultural Heritage Tourism Zone.
Out of 35 papers and presenters nationwide, Mr. Ikalina’s team was awarded Best Research Paper and Best Research Presenter.
The team which is composed of Edsa Shrine D. Abacaro, Ralph Lauren C. Ando, Denise Chuzzaine E. Arzaga, Arvy Marie C. Delgado, and Thomas Rex J. Harder Jr., BS Tourism Management Batch 2023 Alumni, showed that their research has garnered well-deserved attention and will have a lasting impact on the tourism and hospitality industry. Their study on adaptive architecture and its implications for graduating BS Tourism Management students sets the stage for future advancements and enhanced sustainability in the field.
Organized by the Philippine Association of Researchers for Tourism and Hospitality, Inc. (PARTH), the conference provided a platform for researchers, academics, and industry professionals to exchange ideas and address challenges in the tourism and hospitality sector. The event was held from May 9 to May 11, 2024, in a hybrid format at the Asian Institute of Tourism (AIT), University of the Philippines – Diliman, Quezon City.
