Two industry leaders headlined the first-day sessions of Pasyar Negros 2025: Bacolod Travel Expo on Thursday at Ayala Malls Capitol Central, offering fresh insights into the growing Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector and the promotion of authentic Filipino travel experiences. The talks—central to the academic and industry collaboration goals of the event—were moderated by Mr. Kurt Soberano.
Michael Delos Angeles, representing Roy’s Hotel and Convention Center, delivered a discussion on “Negros Occidental as the MICE Hub,” highlighting the province’s increasing potential as a destination for large-scale conferences and business tourism activities. His presentation underscored the need for continuous investment in facilities, talent development, and industry-academe synergy to strengthen Negros’ foothold in the regional MICE market.
Chef Don Angelo Colmenares followed with a session on “Promoting Authentic Filipino Experiences,” emphasizing the role of culinary identity, cultural narratives, and local sourcing in shaping tourism products that resonate with both domestic and international travelers.
Ms. Joanne Ricablanca, faculty member of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management and adviser to Astra Events Co., said the sessions reinforced the academic purpose of the expo.
“Expos like this are more than events—they are living classrooms. Our students gain firsthand exposure to industry leaders, real-world operations, and the evolving demands of MICE and cultural tourism. It bridges what they learn in theory with what the industry truly needs,” Ricablanca said.
Administrators and faculty of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management—led by Dean Dr. Christian Angelo B. Iturriaga, Program Head Ms. Florence Joy Soriano, and Dr. Lilia Militar, Program Head of the BS Hospitality Management program—joined the sessions in support of the students’ applied learning experience.
The lectures form part of the broader goals of Pasyar Negros 2025, which, as outlined in its concept paper, aims to promote tourism development, expand industry partnerships, and offer a hands-on MICE platform for students of La Consolacion College Bacolod.
The two-day expo continues with cultural performances, industry talks, and an awarding ceremony that highlights the contributions of exhibitors and partners in strengthening Negros Occidental’s tourism landscape.