BAGUIO CITY, CAR – September 18, 2025 – On September 18, 2025, the Department of Tourism–Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) and the Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE) successfully held a Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) training for almost 100 faculty members and students.

The one-day training, which took place at the CSITE Main Campus, not only taught the fundamental Filipino values of Maka-Diyos, Maka-Tao, Maka-Bayan, and Maka-Kalikasan—principles crucial to the nation’s distinctive hospitality—but also focused on honing customer care and service quality abilities.

The significance of the training was emphasized by DOT-CAR Regional Director Jovita L. Ganongan, who was represented by Chief Tourism Operations Officer Sylvia G. Chinayog. Chinayog stated that ‘service excellence is not only a skill but a competitive edge,’ encouraging return travel. Ms. Raquel Verzosa, an FBSE-accredited trainer, led the participants through Service Recovery, Delivering Great Service, and Understanding the Guests. To practice providing top-notch services, participants engaged in interactive conversations and role-playing.

According to CSITE Executive Director Daisy C. Bungallon, values-driven training enhances technical education. ‘When combined with Filipino values of warmth, kindness, and respect, technical talents become significantly more meaningful,’ she said.

Romeo G. Mongalini, CSITE Main Vocational Instruction Supervisor, highlighted the program’s goal of training participants to be ‘proud service ambassadors of the Philippines,’ instilling a sense of pride and responsibility. The DOT’s national initiative to improve service standards includes the FBSE program.