Aspiring hospitality and tourism professionals from China, India and the Philippines gathered in celebration of cross-cultural learning and understanding at the recently concluded International Summer Programme 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.

The week-long event welcomed the associates from partner educational institutions of the host school, Silpakorn University International College.

SUIC, under the leadership of president and dean Dr. Sompid Kattiyapikul, specially invited the sole Philippine delegation of International Hospitality Management-Vatel Manila students from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde as part of their academic and internationalization initiatives.

The students were accompanied by Frederick Ang, program chairperson for Benilde Tourism Management.

Their strategic collaboration was established through Vatel, a worldwide network which prepares younger generations to build their professional careers in the international hospitality and tourism management industries.

The delegates of the three nations were welcomed by Dr. Sudawadee Chanpiwat, SUIC deputy dean for Planning and Development assistant professor, together with her team.

Thoughtfully designed to reflect the spirit of “Thai-ness and Cultural Modalities,” it enhances the global exposure, intercultural competence and industry knowledge of the students. The program featured a series of lectures and hands-on workshops which offered a deep and practical understanding of the country’s evolving cultural identity.

The sessions were facilitated by a roster of industry experts and seasoned academicians, to include Rattanapong Kongcharoen, assistant dean for Cooperative Education, on Thai hospitality; Dr. Nussara Intaraboonsom on Thailand’s cultural heritage; and Dr. Thanya Lunchaprasith, assistant dean for Research and International Affairs and Research, on traditional perfume and arts and crafts.

Tanisa Amatayakul Somraiking, Michelin-star Ban Ya Thai Restaurant Owner, walked the guests through the rich history of Thai gastronomy, followed by an exhilarating food tasting.

Dr. Papangkorn Kongmanwatana, SUIC Deputy Dean for Student Development, introduced some of the world-renowned Thai desserts to the guests.

Professor Robert McKenzie, deputy director of Franco-Thai Hotel and Tourism Prep School, likewise provided an in-depth discussion on intercultural communication.

Among the highlights of the visit was the Thai local studies tour around the famous hotspots across the country, to include The Historic City of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thailand.

Donned in elegant traditional Thai costumes, the envoys were able to explore the former capital of the Siamese Kingdom from the 14th to the 18th centuries, which now serves as an extensive archaeological site on the history, diplomacy and commerce of old Thailand.

The trip included the famous Wat Chai Watthanaram, a restored temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River just outside the Ayutthaya Island, as well as the Ayutthaya Gold Treasure Exhibition, a collection of over 2,200 gold artefacts from the period.

Through the Vatel partnership, Filipino students are likewise granted the opportunity to participate in global apprenticeships and excursions to experience diverse cultures, standards, and practices, as well as widen their connections in the multinational setting.

This includes the annual International Summer Program of SUIC.