Creativity, sustainability, and youthful talent took center stage as students of Joji Ilagan International Schools wowed audiences at JIB PRO X 2026 and the inaugural JIB B.E.S.T, two exciting events celebrating the next generation of professionals in culinary arts, hospitality, tourism, and entrepreneurship.
Held at the activity center of Ayala Malls Abreeza on Wednesday, this year’s “Sustaining the Flavors of the Earth” theme highlighted sustainability, innovation, and responsible practices, aligning with key UN Sustainable Development Goals like quality education and responsible consumption and production.
Students from the International Management School (IMS) took part in competitions and interactive showcases that mirrored real-world industry challenges from culinary demos and hospitality presentations to engaging tourism storytelling proving that creativity and sustainability go hand in hand.
“JIB PRO is more than just an ordinary event. It is a proof of readiness, it is a proof of our standards, it is a proof that in JIB we do not just participate but we aim to elevate,” said Joji Ilagan-Bian, chairperson of the Joji Ilagan International Schools, in her message.
Meanwhile, JIB BEST, held on Friday was the first-ever culmination of the school’s Study for Work Program, which gave students a platform to show off their skills in lively, competitive activities.
Highlights included “Summit Sips: Peak-to-Glass Mocktail Mixing,” where aspiring mixologists crafted mountain-inspired beverages, and “Guides to the Peaks: TrailTalk Challenge,” where students presented mountain destinations with safety tips, cultural insights, and travel storytelling.
In his welcome message, Dr. Esiel B. Cabrera, dean for the Study for Work Program (S4W) inspired students to B.O.B.O.-Bring Out the Best in Ourselves and reminded them that perseverance and discipline are key to reaching their “summits.”
He ended on a sweet note: even as students celebrate their achievements, they should remain humble-“always sweet inside, like pineapples.”
With the energetic mix of the two events, Joji Ilagan International Schools once again showed how education, creativity, and sustainability can shape future leaders ready to make their mark on the global stage.
