Marie Francoise Therese B. De Villa, CHP, is a distinguished educator and academic leader in hospitality and tourism, recognized for her commitment to developing industry-ready professionals. As a Certified Hospitality Professional, she bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world practice through her expertise in hotel operations, food and beverage service, and tourism planning. Her teaching philosophy centers on creating learner-focused environments that nurture both technical skills and service-oriented mindsets.
“Hospitality education must cultivate more than competence—it must develop character,” De Villa emphasizes. With years of experience across academia and the service industry, she has become instrumental in curriculum development, faculty training, and quality assurance initiatives.
Her structured yet nurturing approach has guided countless students into successful global hospitality careers, earning her recognition as an educator who equally values professional rigor and human-centered mentorship.
How Did She Discover ITHP?
De Villa’s introduction to ITHP came through professional networking. “I discovered ITHP while browsing for organizations that may help me widen my professional network. It just so happened that I know other professionals who are also part of the institute. A few weeks before I took my on-the-job training, I inquired about the hospitality professional certification. Thankfully, the admins are kind and welcoming. They answered every question I asked and guided me throughout the application. Once the dues were paid, I started my review to take the certification exam.” she recalls.
“The certification review was no joke as it put more pressure on me since I am still young in the industry. Still, I took the exam. It was tricky, but thank God I passed. Now, I enjoy the privilege of reading the sentiments of my seniors in this industry, totally worthy of those late-night reviews.” Despite initial apprehensions as a young professional, she successfully navigated the rigorous CHP examination, viewing it as a crucial step in her commitment to industry excellence.
How Has ITHP Contributed to Her Career Growth?
ITHP membership has significantly enriched De Villa’s professional development. “Participating in discussions with seasoned practitioners gives me invaluable perspective,” she notes. “These exchanges—whether about emerging trends or timeless service principles—continuously refine my teaching approach and industry understanding.” The certification has also strengthened her credibility when consulting on curriculum modernization and accreditation processes.
How Has ITHP Helped in Her Current Professional Role?
While relatively new to ITHP, De Villa already recognizes its transformative impact. “As an ITHP member, I am grateful to be part of the discussions with other well-versed professionals. I take every chance I get to participate in the institute’s learning sessions. It may seem like an everyday conversation, but seeing seniors in the industry, understanding their POVs, and learning wisdom from their years of experience is so valuable.” she explains.
“It is something that I won’t trade for anything. Interactions like this help me grow and inspire me to do better every day.” She particularly values how ITHP forums demonstrate the profession’s depth—reinforcing her mission to help students see hospitality as a noble calling requiring both skill and heart.
“I may be a young one in this industry, but with ITHP’s help, I can build my network, credentials, and craft. It may be too soon for me to detail how ITHP helped me in my professional role, but one thing is for sure: ITHP is one of the big help I got.”
Marie Francoise Therese B. De Villa’s journey illustrates how early-career certification can amplify an educator’s influence. Through ITHP, she continues to elevate hospitality education—proving that the most effective teachers are those who remain perpetual students of their craft. Her story inspires both colleagues and students to pursue professional growth that balances technical mastery with unwavering dedication to service.