Proud Viracnon Joan L. Fortuna is bringing her “maurag” ability to Carmona Cavite. She is known as the daughter of Mr. Sixto N. Landig, the respected owner of the Catanduanes first hostel and the longstanding bakery, known as Le Marem Bakery- a cherished name in the community.
The Department of Hospitality Management, led by Dr. Joan L. Fortuna and supported by Dr. Jenny Beb F. Espineli, the Campus Administrator of Cavite State University – Carmona, through the Campus Extension Office, is a shining example of dedicated service. They’ve stepped out of the university’s boundaries and made empowering the community the cornerstone of its mission.
One great example is their partnership with DEAFinitely Happy Café in Carmona, Cavite. This unique café is mostly run by differently-abled trainees or persons with disabilities (PWDs).
BSHM Program Coordinator Mr. Klenton R. Torrevillas taught the differently-abled trainees how to be baristas and make beverages. Dr. Fortuna herself taught them how to bake bread and pastries. She and Mr. Sibucao even made a special recipe book with coloured pages to make learning easier and more accessible. Mr. Dan Dacillo Ardemer helped with the documentation and promotions, making sure they had eye-catching posters to advertise.
These initiatives achieved remarkable success, in large part due to the invaluable contributions of several esteemed faculty members: Mr. Marvin Sibucao, Mr. Renato Jr. Valladores, Ms. Charlene R. Cadag, Mr. Jameson Pagud, Mr. Nathaniel Tolentino, Ms. Melissa Fabicon, Ms. Camille dela Torre, Ms. Hyass Lucas, and Mr. Matt Cedrick Serrano. Each of these individuals generously dedicated their time, expertise, and talents to the success of these activities. Their involvement underscores the department’s unwavering commitment to teamwork and the vital importance of inclusivity.
Dr. Fortuna and Mr. Torrevillas also went above and beyond by helping the Persons with Disability Organisation in Carmona, Cavite Inc., with their pursuit of FDA accreditation for their Tofu Plant. This accreditation would not only make the organisation more esteemed but also give people with disabilities and their families long-term job opportunities.
These training initiatives are important. For the trainees, they’re not just about learning new skills, but they also help them become more independent, confident, and realise that they have something to contribute to society. For the community, they show how inclusive we can be and that empowerment starts with giving people chances.
CvSU – Carmona’s Department of Hospitality Management has proven that hospitality isn’t just about serving in hotels, restaurants, or cafes but also about showing care and offering opportunities where they’re most needed. By doing so, the University lives up to its role as a partner for progress and a champion of inclusive development.