On February 25, 2026, Batanes State College (BSC), led by College President Dr. Djovi R. Durante, warmly welcomed Dr. Mary Anne Ramos-Tumanan, Professor from the Department of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management, College of Home Economics at University of the Philippines – Diliman (UPD), who is set to join BSC as a visiting professor.

Professor Tumanan earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Tourism Management from the University of Waikato in New Zealand, under the supervision of the renowned Professor Chris Ryan.

In partnership with fellow experts from the University of the Philippines, she initiated the Batanes Tourism and Hospitality Monitoring Center, a research and development platform in Batanes dedicated to strengthening data-driven strategies in tourism and hospitality management. BSC is among the partner institutions together with Provincial Government of Batanes -Tourism Office in this initiative, reflecting her commitment to inter-institutional collaboration.

It is both an exciting and honorable moment for BSC to host a visiting professor from one of the country’s top universities. Her presence reflects the growing recognition of the College’s potential and commitment to academic excellence. It also presents a valuable opportunity for students to learn directly from an expert in the field—further enriching and elevating the academic environment of the institution.

During the meeting, plans were also discussed for the establishment of a Slow Food Movement Laboratory at BSC. This initiative aims to promote sustainable agriculture, particularly in response to the province’s challenging weather conditions. The proposed laboratory will enhance student learning through hands-on experience and, in the long term, benefit the community by encouraging local food sourcing, strengthening self-sufficiency, and contributing to improved economic, health, and environmental outcomes.

BSC remains steadfast in its commitment to pursuing initiatives that enhance the quality of life for its students and the wider community through advancements in education, research, and community development, while continuously strengthening academic excellence and fostering innovation across its promgrams.