LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN — In line with its commitment to fostering the renowned Filipino brand of hospitality, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan recently conducted a specialized service enhancement program for another batch of its workforce.
Organized by the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) under the guidance of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, the “Magnayon: Pangasinan Tourism Frontliner Training” seeks to instill world-class service standards through the Department of Tourism’s Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program, which highlights the care, warmth, and authenticity central to Filipino hospitality.
The three-day training took place on July 21–22 and July 24, 2026, focusing on the unique attributes of the Filipino way of service. The latest cohort of participants comprised personnel from the Utility Operations Section under the Administrative Division of the General Services Office (GSO). Leading the training sessions was Ms. Judith V. Cabillo, an accredited in-house FBSE trainer for the province. PTCAO Department Head Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan also spearheaded the Magnayon orientation, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to delivering optimal public service.
A total of 183 utility staff members deployed across various offices and areas in the Capitol Compound participated in the program. To ensure effective learning, Ms. Cabillo utilized accessible language, relatable scenarios, and practical insights across four training modules, encouraging active discussion and helping participants apply the concepts to their daily operational duties.
The event featured several key speakers who provided administrative and technical guidance. On the opening day, GSO Officer-in-Charge Architect King Edmund Saballe welcomed the attendees with an encouraging message. In the afternoon, Provincial Administrator Mr. Manuel O. Luis, Jr. reminded the staff that beyond their operational tasks, they serve as vital contributors to the broader provincial development goals.
To broaden the participants’ operational knowledge, specialized briefings were also integrated into the training. Engr. Radney Bucio Tanedo, Section Head of the General Maintenance Section under the Asset Management Division, conducted a session on Occupational Safety, detailing hazard controls, risk reduction strategies, and the proper use of protective gear to ensure a healthy working environment. Furthermore, Atty. Christine Jamie V. Melchor, Attorney III from the Provincial Legal Office, discussed relevant local legislation passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. This included the Provincial Sanitation Code—which aligns with the ecological solid waste management directives of Republic Act 9003 regarding segregation, recycling, and composting—as well as Provincial Ordinance No. 208-2017, which strictly prohibits possession or consumption of intoxicating liquors within the capitol grounds.
Though frequently operating behind the scenes, utility personnel are integral to maintaining a safe, clean, and pleasant environment that shapes visitor perceptions and reinforces the destination’s reputable standing. By equipping them with the core values of the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence, the program reinforces the collective effort toward building a highly competitive and sustainable tourism sector for Pangasinan.
/CJVV & KLG
