HM Students Celebrates Excellence at 10th Maghikay Festival

The Department of Hospitality Management of the University of Southern Mindanao in cooperation with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) carried out the 10^th Maghikay Festival Hospitality Skills Competition on November 21, 2025, at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.

Guided by this year’s theme “Husay at talentong nagliliyab, Ipamalas sa ika-sampung Maghikay”, the event took a different approach away from their conventional tradition by inviting other institutions to participate in various competitions.

Southern Christian College (SCC) and USM-PALMA Extension classes participated in the event.

The event featured skills competitions namely table setting, fruits and vegetables carving, same-event editing, table skirting with center piece, flower arrangement, cake decorating, on-the-spot bed setting, hospitality quiz bee, hotel reception skills, mystery box, table napkin folding, bar flairtending, Tuna pasta, Wine Parade, Food Plating, and the Mr. & Ms., and Hiyas ng Maghikay 2025.

In a speech of USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel represented by Vice President for Administration and Finance Quenielyn L. Durendes, President Pimentel pronounced his immense gratitude for the commitment of the faculty, staff, and students to their craft especially in innovation.

“For a decade now, this event has served as a vibrant platform where passion meets purpose, where pursuit of excellence in hospitality is showcased with pride, creativity, and dedication…To everyone who has contributed to this legacy, thank you for your passion and dedication.”

The 10^th Maghikay Festival Hospitality Skills Competition was facilitated by the Hospitality Management students as part of their final requirement under the course HM 10 – Meetings, Incentives, Conference, and Events Management (MICE).