2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 15
Available Online: 20 June 2026
Author/s:
Agbones, Shaira Mae
Arfapo, Kyla Y.
Estella, Krishia E.
Etabis, Earl Lourence B.
Madarang, Nicole Sam F.
Murao, Maricar P.
Pascual, Kathleen R.
Sison, Kathrina Paula E.
Tolentino, Allyza L.
Manzano, Marben C.
Espinosa, Jeffy F.
Echaure, Jessie*
Northern Zambales College, Inc., Philippines (jessieechaure48@gmail.com)
Abstract:
This study examined the integration of a foreign language component in the tourism and hospitality management program at Northern Zambales College, focusing on students’ perceptions of its acceptability, practicality, and relevance to industry needs. Using a descriptive correlational research design, data were gathered through a structured survey that assessed student interest, curriculum integration, and perceived practicality, as well as cultural understanding, language proficiency skills, and industry application. The study aimed to determine how foreign language instruction contributes to effective communication, cultural competence, and professional preparation within hospitality education. Emphasis was placed on understanding whether the current curriculum supports meaningful language use in real service environments and aligns with the expectations of the tourism and hospitality industry. Findings revealed strong student support for the inclusion of a foreign language component in the curriculum. Students perceived foreign language learning as highly practical and beneficial for improving confidence, communication skills, and interaction with international guests. The results also indicated that language integration enhances cultural awareness, service quality, and readiness for employment in both local and global hospitality settings. Students recognized that learning a foreign language strengthens career opportunities and supports industry specific communication demands. The study concludes that integrating foreign language instruction into hospitality education plays a vital role in developing globally competitive graduates and recommends continuous curriculum improvement through contextualized, experiential, and industry oriented language teaching approaches.
Keywords: integration of foreign language, student interest, curriculum integration, perceived practicality, cultural understanding, language proficiency skills, industry application
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26276
Cite this article:
Agbones, S. M., Arfapo, K. Y., Estella, K. E., Etabis, E. L. B., Madarang, N. S. F., Murao, M. P., Pascual, K. R., Sison, K. P. E., Tolentino, A. L., Manzano, M. C., Espinosa, J. F., & Echaure, S. (2026). Integration of a foreign language component in the tourism and hospitality management program in Northern Zambales College. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(15), 67-90. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26276
* Corresponding Author