Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation: Davao University Guide

The Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation, Inc. (JICCFI) is one of Davao City’s most recognized institutions for technical-vocational education, hospitality programs, and career-focused training. Known for its strong industry partnerships and hands-on learning approach, the school has earned an excellent reputation for producing job-ready graduates who easily transition into employment both locally and abroad.

This comprehensive guide introduces everything you need to know about JICCFI—from its programs, facilities, and admission processes to tuition details, campus life, and career opportunities.

Overview of Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation

Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation was founded by Joji Ilagan-Bian, a respected leader in the education and hospitality sectors in Mindanao. The institution focuses on competency-based education, preparing students for real-world work environments through simulation labs, practical training, and industry immersion.

The school is TESDA-accredited and offers a wide array of programs, including:

• Hospitality and tourism

• Culinary arts

• Business and entrepreneurship

• Fashion design

• Information technology

• Technical-vocational courses

Its strong curriculum and modern training facilities make JICCFI a preferred choice for students who want career-oriented education without the long academic track of traditional universities.

Why Choose Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation?

Industry-Relevant Training

JICCFI is known for its practical, hands-on approach. Students spend significant time in simulation environments that replicate actual workplaces, such as hotel front desks, commercial kitchens, fashion studios, and computer labs.

Strong Job Placement

The institution maintains ties with local and international companies. Many hospitality and culinary graduates secure employment opportunities abroad, especially in cruise lines, hotels, and restaurants.

TESDA Accreditation

As a TESDA-accredited training center, JICCFI ensures that all programs adhere to national competency standards. Students also receive nationally recognized certificates, which increases employability.

Flexible Programs

Their modular and short courses allow students—including working adults—to pursue additional skills or shift careers efficiently.

Academic Programs Offered

Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation offers several clusters of programs designed to match industry needs.

Hospitality and Tourism Programs

These programs follow international hospitality standards and include:

• Hotel and Restaurant Services

• Tourism Promotion and Services

• Bartending NC II

• Housekeeping NC II

• Front Office Services

Students practice in simulated hotel facilities, complete internships, and may join exchange or on-the-job training (OJT) programs.

Culinary Arts and Food Services

Culinary students receive intensive training in:

• Commercial cooking

• Baking and pastry production

• Food and beverage services

• Kitchen management

The school has industry-grade kitchens where students learn practical culinary techniques under the guidance of experienced chefs.

Business and Entrepreneurship

These programs include:

• Business management

• Marketing

• Entrepreneurship for SMEs

• Leadership and executive courses

The aim is to help students build management skills or start their own businesses.

Fashion and Design

JICCFI also offers creative programs such as:

• Fashion design and illustration

• Garment technology

• Tailoring and pattern-making

Students gain hands-on experience designing, drafting, and producing garments.

Information Technology and Digital Skills

Technology-focused courses include:

• Computer systems servicing

• Digital office management

• Web design and basic programming

These prepare students for administrative or entry-level tech roles.

Campus and Facilities

The JICCFI campus in Davao City is designed to support skills-based learning. Facilities commonly include:

Modern Simulation Rooms

Hospitality students train in replica hotel rooms, front desks, and housekeeping laboratories.

Commercial-Grade Kitchens

Culinary programs use chef-standard equipment for cooking, baking, and pastry lessons.

Fashion Studios

Fashion labs have sewing machines, cutting tables, mannequins, and design tools.

Computer Laboratories

IT students have access to up-to-date desktop units and software tools.

Multipurpose Halls and Training Rooms

Used for workshops, seminars, and student activities.

These facilities ensure that students receive an immersive and realistic training experience.

Admission Requirements

Admission at JICCFI is generally open to high school graduates, career shifters, and adults interested in upskilling. Requirements may include:

• Accomplished application form

• High school diploma or ALS certificate

• PSA Birth Certificate

• 1–2 valid IDs

• Passport-size or 2×2 ID photos

• Payment of registration fee

For TESDA courses, applicants may need to follow specific guidelines set by the agency.

Tuition Fees and Financial Considerations

Tuition at Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation varies depending on the course length and specialization. Estimated costs:

• Short TESDA courses: ₱8,000–₱25,000

• Culinary and hospitality programs: ₱25,000–₱80,000

• Fashion and design courses: ₱15,000–₱50,000

• Business and management workshops: ₱5,000–₱20,000

Some programs offer installment plans or scholarship opportunities depending on availability.

Student Life and Learning Environment

Although JICCFI is not a traditional university with large-scale campus life, students enjoy a collaborative and professional learning atmosphere. Highlights include:

Competency-Based Learning

Activities focus on real-world scenarios and performance-based assessments.

Internships and Job Placements

Students undergo OJT in hotels, restaurants, business offices, and partner companies.

Workshops and Events

Competitions, culinary showcases, fashion shows, and tourism events are part of the student experience.

Career Orientation

Mentorship and career preparation classes help students confidently enter the workforce.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates from Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation often find employment in:

Hospitality and Tourism

• Hotels

• Resorts

• Airlines

• Cruise ships

Culinary and Food Services

• Restaurants

• Bakeries

• Catering companies

• Food production businesses

Fashion and Creative Fields

• Tailoring shops

• Clothing brands

• Fashion houses

Business and Office Administration

• Corporate offices

• Small businesses

• Government and NGOs

The school’s industry ties and practical training make it easier for graduates to secure job placements.

How to Apply

Students can apply through the school’s admissions office or via online registration (when available). Steps typically include:

1. Choose your program

2. Submit documents

3. Attend an orientation or briefing

4. Pay the enrollment fee

5. Begin classes according to the scheduled calendar

Prospective students are encouraged to inquire directly through the school’s official channels for updated requirements and schedules.

Final Thoughts

The Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation stands as one of Davao City’s strongest institutions for practical, career-oriented training. Its TESDA-accredited programs, expert instructors, modern facilities, and industry-focused curriculum make it an ideal choice for students seeking employability and practical skills.

Whether pursuing a hospitality career, culinary profession, business leadership path, or creative design field, JICCFI offers structured programs that prepare students for real-world success.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation known for in Davao City?

Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation (JICCFI) is widely known in Davao City as a leading institution for technical-vocational and career-focused education. It specializes in hospitality and tourism, culinary arts, business, fashion design, and various TESDA-accredited programs that prepare students for immediate employment.

The school emphasizes hands-on training, simulation-based learning, and close industry partnerships. Because of this, many graduates are considered highly employable and are able to secure jobs in hotels, restaurants, cruise lines, corporate offices, and other local and international workplaces.

Is Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation a TESDA-accredited institution?

Yes, Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation is TESDA-accredited. This means that its programs follow national competency standards set by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the Philippines. Students who complete TESDA-accredited courses receive recognized national certificates after passing the required assessments.

These national certificates are highly valuable when applying for jobs within the country and abroad, as many employers look for applicants with certified skills and formal, competency-based training.

What kinds of programs and courses are offered at JICCFI?

JICCFI offers a wide range of programs that are grouped into several main fields. These include hospitality and tourism courses such as hotel and restaurant services, front office, housekeeping, bartending, and tourism promotion. Culinary courses cover commercial cooking, baking and pastry, kitchen management, and food and beverage services.

The school also offers programs in business and entrepreneurship, fashion and design, and information technology. Many of these courses are modular, short-term, and skills-based, making them ideal for both fresh graduates and working adults who want to upgrade or change careers.

What are the basic admission requirements for new students?

While exact requirements may change over time, most new students are expected to submit an accomplished application form, a high school report card or diploma (or ALS certificate), a PSA Birth Certificate, ID photos, and at least one valid ID. Some courses may ask for additional documents depending on the nature of the program.

For TESDA-accredited courses, students may be required to follow TESDA guidelines, which can include age requirements or specific educational backgrounds. It is always best to contact the school directly for the most updated list of admission requirements.

How much is the tuition at Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation?

Tuition fees at JICCFI depend on the program and duration of the course. Short TESDA programs and skills courses usually cost less, while specialized programs like culinary arts or advanced hospitality training may be more expensive because of equipment and materials used in the training.

As a general guide, short vocational courses may range from a few thousand pesos upward, while full culinary or hospitality packages can reach higher amounts. The school may also offer installment plans, payment terms, or limited scholarship slots. For accurate and updated tuition information, it is recommended to inquire directly from the admissions or registrar’s office.

Does JICCFI help students find jobs after graduation?

Yes, one of the strengths of Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation is its career-oriented focus and strong industry connections. The school maintains linkages with hotels, restaurants, tourism businesses, fashion companies, and corporate offices, both in Davao and outside the region.

Students often undergo on-the-job training (OJT) or internships in partner institutions. These exposures may lead to actual job offers after graduation. Many alumni also find employment abroad, especially in hospitality, tourism, culinary, and cruise line industries, thanks to their training and certifications.

What are the campus facilities like at Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation?

The campus facilities are designed to simulate real working environments. Hospitality students train in mock hotel front desks, housekeeping laboratories, and function rooms. Culinary students work in commercial-grade training kitchens equipped with standard industry tools and appliances.

Fashion and design students use sewing machines, cutting tables, and mannequins in specialized studios, while IT students study in computer laboratories with updated software. These simulation-based facilities help students build confidence and develop practical skills before entering the actual workplace.

Is Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation a good choice for international or out-of-town students?

JICCFI can be a good choice for out-of-town and international students who want focused, skills-based training rather than a traditional four-year university degree. Davao City is a major urban center in Mindanao with access to hotels, restaurants, business offices, and a growing tourism sector, providing many opportunities for training and employment.

However, students from outside Davao need to plan for housing, living expenses, and travel. The school may provide guidance or recommendations regarding nearby boarding houses or dormitories, but accommodation arrangements are often handled by the students or their families.

How long do the courses usually take to finish?

The duration of courses at Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation varies. Some short TESDA programs or skills-based courses may only take a few weeks or months to complete. Longer, more comprehensive programs such as full hospitality or culinary packages may run for several months to over a year, especially when OJT or internships are included.

Because of this flexibility, many students choose JICCFI to gain employable skills in a shorter time frame compared to traditional university degrees.

How can I get more updated information about programs and schedules?

For the most accurate and updated details on course offerings, schedules, tuition fees, and admission procedures, it is best to contact Joji Ilagan Career Center Foundation directly through their official website, social media pages, phone numbers, or campus office. School policies, fees, and course line-ups may change, so always verify information before making final decisions.

Prospective students are encouraged to ask about upcoming intakes, enrollment deadlines, available promotions, and any new TESDA programs or specialized training that may have been recently introduced.

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