The surge in popularity of Tourism & Hospitality Management is driven by several factors, including the global expansion of the tourism indus­try, the increasing desire for travel experiences, and the rise of new technologies in the sector. More people are seeking personalized, high-quality experiences, which fuels the demand for skilled professionals in hospitality and tourism services. Moreover, the increasing importance of sustainability and eco-tourism has broadened the scope of the industry.

In light of this, Western Leyte College of Ormoc City prides itself on offering a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on, practical experience and incorporates Tech­nical Education and Skills Development Authority National Certifications to the subjects that students acquire at the end of the semesters, which is very useful in their future careers in the industry. cation to the residents of Ormoc City and international students. It was founded by a group of dedicated individuals who dia

Established in 1945, Western Leyte College (WLC), which carries a rich history, serves a vision of providing high-quality education to the residents of Ormoc City and international students. It was founded by a group of dedicated individuals who recognized the need for accessible and quality higher education, particularly in the fields of business, health, and later, hospitality management.

Over the years, the college has evolved into one of the leading institutions in the region, contributing significantly to the development of the local workforce and the community. Its foundation was grounded in the belief that education is key to unlocking opportunities, and it continues to remain committed to that vision.

Unique Aspects

Western Leyte College of Ormoc City stands out due to its strong emphasis on practical, real-world experience in hospitality and tourism education. Unlike other institutions, they have developed partnerships with hotels, restaurants, tourism boards, and event management companies to ensure that its students have access to internships and employment opportunities. This college also focuses on holistic development, encouraging the students to hone their soft skills, such as leadership, communication, and customer service, which are essential in the hospitality industry. The faculty members, who have substantial industry experience, also bring unique insights to the classroom, making learning both relevant and engaging.

Furthermore, Western Leyte College of Ormoc City has been at the forefront of integrating technology into the programs to enhance the learning experience. They utilize a mix of traditional teaching methods and innovative technologies, including virtual simulations for hospitality management, online learning platforms, and the use of industry-standard software in business and tourism courses. “Our college is using the Kloud Hotel System and SmartBooks Cloud System like what other big universities use for their Property Management Systems for Hospitality and Tourism courses. Our students also get hands-on experience with modern technologies used in hotel management, culinary arts, and event planning”, says Junjie C. Palacio (MBA-HRM, CHP), Dean (College of Hospitality Management), Western Leyte College of Ormoc City.

Assisting Students in Securing Placements

Western Leyte College of Ormoc City has a dedicated Career Services Office that actively works with both students and employers to ensure successful internships and job placements. The office maintains a network of local and international companies that offer internship opportunities for their students. Through industry partnerships and career fairs, they connect students with potential employers. Also, they provide workshops on resume writing, interview preparation, and job-search strategies to help students stand out.

The college has a comprehensive support system in place to help students develop the skills needed for successful job placements. This includes career counseling, soft skills workshops, mock interviews, and industry-specific training sessions. Western Leyte College of Ormoc City also has mentorship programs where students are paired with industry professionals for guidance and career advice. These initiatives ensure that students are well-prepared, not only with academic knowledge but also with the practical skills and confidence necessary for the job market.