The University of Batangas (UB) signed a landmark partnership agreement with the Magsaysay Training Center (MTC) on June 15, 2026, securing premier international internship and employment pathways for hospitality and cruise line students, at the UB Juan Y. Javier Culture and Arts Building (Auditorium).
University of Batangas President Lily Marlene J. Hernandez-Bohn led the official signing ceremony inside the auditorium. This strategic alliance guarantees elite fourth-year On-the-Job Training (OJT) placements for senior students pursuing Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management (BSIHM), BSIHM major in Cruise Line Operations, and Bachelor of Science in Tourism degrees.
The partnership directly addresses a critical socio-economic challenge in the Batangas and CALABARZON region. While tourism and hospitality represent booming career paths, local graduates often face intense competition and struggle to transition from academic settings to high-paying international careers. By collaborating with Magsaysay Training Center – a premier global maritime and technical training institution – the university bridges this gap, equipping students with real-world, industry-standard competencies that unlock immediate placement on international cruise lines and luxury hotels.
College of Business, Accountancy, and Hospitality Management (CBAHM) Dean Dr. Erwin M. Lumanglas coordinated the event, which drew widespread support from the academic administration. Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Aurora P. Tolentino, Senior Vice President for Administrations Alex A. Ramos, and Internship Officer Ma. Raissa R. Mercado-Beron finalized the curriculum alignment during the assembly. Representing the industry partner, Cruise Career Preparatory Program (CCPP) Director Marvin Lingad and CCPP Training Supervisor Raffy Earl Obeda oversaw the operational onboarding of the student candidates.
This industrial-academic synergy advances UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
The initiative directly satisfies SDG Target 4.4, which aims to increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship. The university monitors progress through Indicator 4.4.1, tracking the proportion of youth and adults with structured technical skill sets.
Furthermore, the program advances SDG Target 8.6, which seeks to substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education, or training. By securing immediate international employment pipelines through Indicator 8.6.1, the partnership transforms the regional economy. Rather than facing underemployment or joining local labor oversupplies, Batangueño youth step directly into the global cruise workforce, returning vital remittances and advanced professional skills to their home provinces.