Chef Lea Besana-Legaspi, CHP®, holds the esteemed Certified Hospitality Professional designation, reflecting her specialized expertise in hospitality management and her commitment to service excellence across culinary and food service operations. With over two decades of experience spanning culinary education, food service operations, and professional development, she has built a multifaceted career as a Chef Instructor, Culinary Consultant, and Hospitality Trainer. Her background includes roles as a Culinary Program Manager, Executive Chef Consultant, and TESDA-accredited trainer, positioning her as a practitioner who blends operational rigor with mentorship and industry-relevant training. Grounded in professionalism, cultural appreciation, and heart, Chef Lea consistently advocates for high standards in guest experience, culinary quality, and effective hospitality leadership.
Discovering ITHP
“I discovered ITHP in such a simple yet powerful way. One day, while scrolling through Facebook, a post about the program caught my eye. At first, it was just another scroll, but something about it immediately grabbed my attention. The vision, the opportunities, and the values behind ITHP spoke to me right away.
I remember feeling a spark of curiosity that quickly turned into genuine interest. It wasn’t just another program—it felt like something that could truly shape my growth and open doors in the hospitality industry. From that moment, I knew I had to learn more, and the more I explored, the more convinced I became that ITHP was the right path for me.”
Career Growth Through ITHP
“Being part of ITHP has contributed enormously to my career growth. For me, it’s not just about the program—it’s about the connections I’ve built, the network I’ve gained, and the credibility that comes with the credentials.
Most importantly, the credentials I’ve earned through ITHP have strengthened my credibility in the industry. They serve as proof of my commitment to excellence and continuous learning, and they give me the confidence to stand out in a competitive field.
For me, ITHP has been more than a program—it’s been a platform that connects me to people, builds my professional reputation, and inspires me to keep pushing forward in my career journey.”
ITHP in Her Current Role
“Being part of ITHP has made a real difference in my current professional role. It has given me the confidence to step up as a leader because I know I carry credible credentials that the industry respects. The program has expanded my network, connecting me with professionals and mentors who continue to inspire and challenge me to grow.
ITHP has also strengthened my ability to adapt to new trends in hospitality and service. The knowledge and skills I gained allow me to bring fresh ideas into my workplace, whether it’s improving guest experiences, building stronger team dynamics, or aligning with sustainability practices.
Most importantly, ITHP has helped me establish credibility—not just on paper, but in the way I carry myself and lead my team. It reminds me that professional growth is a continuous journey, and being part of this program has given me both the tools and the confidence to keep moving forward.”
Advice for Future Members
“If someone asked me about joining ITHP, my advice would be simple: go for it, but be ready to commit yourself fully. Being a member isn’t just about adding another credential to your name—it’s about embracing growth, building connections, and proving to yourself that you’re serious about your career in hospitality.
I would tell them that ITHP opens doors to networks and opportunities you might never find on your own. It gives you credibility, but more importantly, it challenges you to keep learning and improving every day. You can’t expect instant results—it’s a journey, and you have to show up consistently with integrity and confidence.
For me, ITHP has been a platform to grow not only as a professional but also as a leader. So, my advice is: if you’re considering it, don’t hesitate. Take the step, invest in yourself, and be ready to put in the work. The rewards—in knowledge, respect, and career growth—are worth it.”