From classrooms to cruise ships, Metro Dumaguete College Tourism students recently completed an exciting and unforgettable 5-day journey through the APEX Program – "Apprenticeship by Experience", held from March 4 to 8, 2025.

Students from 1st to 3rd year of both the BS in Tourism Management and Diploma in Tourism Technology programs took part in this one-of-a-kind learning experience. The trip brought them to several major destinations: Dumaguete to Bacolod, Dumaguete to Dipolog, Dipolog to Zamboanga, Zamboanga to Manila, Manila to Batangas, Batangas to Iloilo, and Iloilo to Bacolod—all aboard 2GO Travel.

What made this journey truly special was that it wasn’t just about travel—it was about learning by doing. Students had the opportunity to experience life onboard through a series of hands-on activities and workshops, including the very first ‘Brew Like a Pro’ Barista Workshop at Sea, an exciting Bridge Tour, and a detailed Orientation Session led by the warm and welcoming Shipboard Training Officer, Ma’am Marj.

Throughout the trip, students didn’t just see the places—they applied what they’ve learned in tourism management: customer service, event planning, cruise operations, and more. It was a chance to grow, connect, and explore the tourism industry beyond textbooks.

Metro Dumaguete College continues to promote real-world learning and industry exposure to help students become globally competitive tourism professionals.

Photo by | Ms. Princess Rhea Remegio

Layout by | The Prism