IHTM Studes Empower Aeta Youth through Community Extension Program

Paying it back to the community, League of Tourism Students of the Philippines-MCC Chapter and Institute of Hospitality and Tourism Management Student Council and Faculty spearheaded a community extension program with the theme "Empowering Aeta Youth: Developing Tour Guiding Skills for Sustainable Tourism," on 20 March 2025. This initiative sought to provide Grade 9 and 10 with valuable skills in tour guiding to promote tourism in Clark.

Tourism students who had already undergone Tour Guiding Training from the Department of Tourism Region 3 led the hands-on training session. The training focused on technical knowledge and the importance of tourism sustainability. Students shared their knowledge and expertise with the Aeta youth, offering practical skills that could help them pursue careers as tour guides.

Necessary tools for tour guiding including tour guide short, polo shirt, rubber shoes, whistle, and flaglets were provided and distributed by the organization. Additionally, the organization also gifted a printer to the Aeta students, which will be valuable for their academic needs, further supporting their educational growth.

This initiative intended to provide skills that will benefit the Aeta youth in their immediate future and contribute to the sustainable tourism in the community. Furthermore, as the students develop skills in tour guiding, it helps them bridge the gap in preserving their cultural heritage and stay abreast with modern-day opportunities in the tourism sector.