2GO, the Philippines’ leading sea travel provider and a subsidiary of the SM Group, proudly announces its partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) to support the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Program. This collaboration underscores 2GO’s commitment to enhance hospitality and promote culturally aligned Filipino service across its operations, reinforcing the company’s dedication to elevating the standards of the tourism industry.

The FBSE Program, led by Hon. Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation Coordination and Resource Generation, is a flagship initiative of the Department of Tourism. It aims to equip frontliners in the tourism and hospitality industry with the skills to deliver exceptional service infused with the essence of Filipino warmth, thereby creating a distinct national brand. This values-based customer service approach emphasizes seven core Filipino values: Maka-Dios, Makatao, Maka-Kalikasan, Makabansa, Masayahin, May Bayanihan, and May Pag-asa, which distinguish the program from conventional customer service training.

“2GO’s commitment to the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence Program is a testament to the industry’s dedication to elevating the standards of hospitality in the Philippines. This collaboration ensures that our visitors experience the unique warmth and hospitality that define the Filipino way of service,” says Hon. Shahlimar Hofer Tamano.

Mabuhay, 2GO: Strengthening Filipino Hospitality

In support of the DOT’s efforts to instill and expand the reach of the FBSE, 2GO has taken proactive steps by sending 14 participants to a “Train-The-Trainer” learning course conducted by the DOT. These 2GO participants will train other team members, particularly those in frontline and tourism roles. The training focuses on demonstrating and applying the Mabuhay and Salamat Gestures, among other culturally significant Filipino practices with a 2GO touch, within 2GO establishments. By aligning itself with FBSE standards, 2GO is fostering an environment of Filipino warmth while enhancing the service experience within its establishments.

These certified trainers will play a pivotal role in embedding the FBSE principles across 2GO, ensuring that the company’s service standards consistently reflect the rich tapestry of Filipino hospitality. “As we anticipate more travelers in the Philippines, aligning with the FBSE Program allows us to contribute to a seamless Filipino hospitality experience for our passengers traveling from shore to shore,” says Frederic DyBuncio, President and CEO of 2GO Group, Inc.

One of the newly certified trainers, Vince Canete, HR and Training Supervisor at 2GO, shares, “The FBSE Program has truly enriched our approach to service. It’s not just about training our staff, it’s about instilling a sense of pride and cultural identity that our passengers will feel in every interaction. We’re excited to bring this warmth and professionalism to life in our daily operations.”

Elevating Service Excellence Across the Organization

The integration of the FBSE Program within 2GO aims to cultivate a culture of service excellence, significantly raising the quality standards of the tourism workforce within the sea travel sector. This initiative is particularly timely as the Philippines continues to experience a steady increase in tourist arrivals, making it essential for 2GO to deliver top-tier service that embodies Filipino values.

With plans to train 200 participants from various departments across different regions, 2GO is committed to reinforcing the importance of a brand that mirrors the rich heritage of Filipino hospitality. This partnership with the DOT marks another milestone in 2GO’s ongoing efforts to enhance service excellence in the transportation and logistics sector of the Philippines.

To learn more about 2GO’s products and services, visit 2go.com.ph.