Gilbert Ian M. Dalida, a Certified Hospitality Professional and proud member of ITHP since December 2024, stands at the crossroads of tourism, community development, and creative entrepreneurship. With over a decade of diverse experience, he has built a career defined by service excellence, sustainability, and grassroots leadership—earning recognition both locally and nationally.
As Operations Manager of Pompeo and Luming’s Inn in Tagkawayan, he transformed the establishment into a Department of Tourism-accredited leader in local accommodations, garnering multiple Booking.com Traveller Review Awards, Agoda Customer Review Awards, and top municipal honors for tourism growth. Beyond his operational leadership, Gilbert is the Founder and President of the Tourism Hospitality Association of Tagkawayan, Inc., where he unites stakeholders, leads advocacy efforts, and builds capacity for local tourism players.
His previous roles—from Chief of Staff at NAIA Terminal 2’s Terminal Operations Office to Project Supervisor at Okada Manila—have honed his expertise in operations, safety compliance, guest relations, and large-scale coordination. A recipient of the Exceptional Business Plan Award from BPI Foundation and named a GoNegosyo Inspiring Tourismpreneur in 2023, Gilbert continues to shape sustainable tourism models while inspiring local entrepreneurs to see tourism not just as an industry, but as a platform for empowerment and cultural connection.
Discovering ITHP – When asked, “How did you discover ITHP?” Gilbert shared that he came across the Institute of Tourism & Hospitality Professionals while seeking opportunities to further his professional development in tourism and hospitality management. As both a business operator and tourism advocate in Tagkawayan, he was looking for an organization that could help him sharpen his skills while connecting with like-minded professionals.
“I discovered the Institute of Tourism & Hospitality Professionals (ITHP) while seeking opportunities to further my professional development in tourism and hospitality management. As a business operator and advocate for tourism in Tagkawayan, I was looking for an organization that could help me sharpen my skills and connect with like-minded professionals.”
Strengthening Industry Expertise – In response to “In what ways has being a part of ITHP contributed to your career growth?” he explained that ITHP has expanded his network by connecting him with industry leaders and peers, while giving him access to resources that advance his expertise in hospitality and tourism management.
“Being part of ITHP has significantly contributed to my career growth by providing access to a network of industry professionals and offering valuable resources for advancing my expertise in hospitality and tourism management. The organization has also helped me stay updated on best practices, emerging trends, and certifications necessary to maintain high service standards”
Through the organization, he has stayed informed on best practices, emerging trends, and relevant certifications—ensuring his service standards remain at the highest level.
Continuous Learning for Greater Impact – On “How has ITHP helped you in your current professional role?” Gilbert emphasized that the workshops and certifications provided by ITHP have equipped him with up-to-date skills and knowledge.
“ITHP has helped me in my current role by providing me with continuous learning opportunities through workshops and certifications.”
These learning opportunities have enhanced his ability to lead operations, develop staff, and implement sustainable tourism strategies that benefit both his business and the wider community he serves.