2GO and DOT Join Forces for FBSE Program, Promoting Filipino Brand of Service Excellence

2GO, a proud subsidiary of the SM Group and the Philippines’ top marine travel provider, has partnered with the DOT to support the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Program. Working together, 2GO and the Philippines Tourism Board are reiterating their shared goal of raising the bar for the tourism industry through superior hospitality and culturally relevant service.

Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano is in charge of the FBSE Program, which is one of the Department of Tourism’s most well-known initiatives. Our goal is to train frontline workers in the tourism and hospitality industry to create a unique national brand by providing outstanding service that embodies the warmth of the Filipino people. Dios, Makatao, Maka-Kalikasan, Makabansa, Masayahin, May Bayanihan, and May Pag-asa are the seven fundamental Filipino values that this customer service program centers on. These principles set it apart from more traditional approaches.

The industry’s commitment to upgrading hospitality standards in the Philippines is shown in 2GO’s commitment to the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence Program. “This partnership guarantees that our guests will encounter the distinct friendliness and generosity that characterize the Filipino service style,” remarks Hon. Shahlimar Hofer Tamano.

Greetings, 2GO: Making the Filipino Hospitality Industry Stronger
By sending fourteen people to a DOT-sponsored “Train-The-Trainer” training session, 2GO supports the department’s efforts to establish and broaden the FBSE’s reach. These 2GO participants will train team members, especially those who work in the tourist industry or on the front lines. Among other culturally significant Filipino customs with a 2GO touch, the training demonstrates and applies the Mabuhay and Salamat Gestures within 2GO establishments. By adopting FBSE standards, 2GO is improving the service experience for its customers and creating an atmosphere that is welcoming to Filipinos.

These certified trainers will be crucial in instilling the FBSE values across 2GO and maintaining service standards that faithfully represent the diverse Filipino hospitality culture. Aligning with the FBSE Program enables us to contribute to a seamless Filipino hospitality experience for our passengers travelling from shore to shore, as we expect more travellers in the Philippines,” says Frederic DyBuncio, President and CEO of 2GO Group, Inc.

“The FBSE Program has truly enriched our approach to service,” notes Vince Canete, 2GO’s HR and Training Supervisor and one of the newly certified trainers. Instilling a sense of pride and cultural identification in our passengers is equally as important as training our staff. It is our hope that our day-to-day operations reflect this kind of professionalism and friendliness.

Raising the Bar for Service Quality Company-wide
Aiming to foster a culture of service excellence, integrating the FBSE Program within 2GO will substantially raise the quality standards of the sea transport tourism workforce. 2GO must provide first-rate service that reflects Filipino values, and this project couldn’t come at a better moment because the Philippines is seeing a consistent rise in tourist arrivals.

Two-Go is reiterating its commitment to building a brand that reflects the rich history of Filipino hospitality by training 200 participants from different departments across different locations. With this relationship with the DOT, 2GO has reached a new level of success in its mission to improve transportation and logistics services in the Philippines.

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

Celebrating Brotherhood and Philanthropy: The 17th Annual Reggie Padua Cup

 

Under the sun-drenched skies of Camp Aguinaldo Golf Course, nearly 100 participants gathered for the 17th Annual Reggie Padua Cup, a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and a commitment to philanthropy. Organized by UP TAI and expertly managed by SOCEX Consulting Corp., this year’s tournament raised vital funds for the National Children’s Hospital, showcasing the profound strength of community bonds and the joy of uniting for a noble cause.

The event was more than just a golf tournament; it was a vibrant celebration of friendship and generosity. As golfers teed off, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement, each swing echoing the underlying message that true brotherhood thrives in connection and support. Participants celebrated not only their love for the game but also their dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Adding a layer of thrill to the day, two brand-new cars and a premium Cobra golf set were up for grabs in the highly anticipated hole-in-one challenge. While none claimed these impressive prizes this year, the excitement was palpable as participants came close to driving home in style. The day’s spirit remained undeterred, with over 100 raffle prizes ensuring everyone left with smiles and a sense of accomplishment.

As the sun began to set, participants took a moment to reflect on their shared experiences. The laughter and stories exchanged on the greens created lasting memories, a testament to the enduring legacy of Reggie Padua. This year’s tournament held special significance as it coincided with the 56th anniversary of the Tau Gamma Phi, making the event a moving reminder of the power of community and compassion in action.

 

The 17th Annual Reggie Padua Cup was more than just a golf competition; it was a sentimental occasion honoring the community’s enduring brotherhood and giving back mentality. Along with the trophies and awards, the participants also left with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that they had honored the legacy of a beloved local figure and made a contribution to the National Children’s Hospital.

 

Enchanted Kingdom Celebrates 29 Years Of Timeless Magic This October

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, officially kicked off its 29th-anniversary celebration on September 28, Saturday, at the Eldar’s Theater.

This year’s celebration reflects how EK has stood the test of time and left a lasting legacy among Filipino families by providing transformative experiences since the park opened its magical gates in 1995.

Nico R. Mamon, EK’s 29th Anniversary Celebration Chairman, expressed, “Looking back at almost three decades of Enchanted Kingdom, we have created countless magical memories that transcend trends and generations. We are hopeful and excited to continue being a part of everyone’s story through our timeless offerings for the years to come.”

The launch unveiled a lineup of events and offerings prepared by EK in line with its commitment to providing magical experiences and memories that last a lifetime.

Enchanting Events Leading to the 29th:
On October 6, teachers are in for a magical treat as EK pays tribute to their timeless contributions to the growth of countless Filipinos through the World Teachers’ Day Magical Celebration. The day will be filled with activities such as learning seminars, EDU-fun games, entertainment, zumba sessions, and raffle prizes. Teachers can also enjoy two (2) Regular Day Passes for unlimited rides (except gated attractions) for a special price of Php 1,200, valid on October 6. This promo can be booked through the EK Online Store until October 5.

Timeless Magic Concert and Fireworks Show:
Gear up for the peak of the 29th Anniversary festivities on October 19! In partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG) Philippines and Coca-Cola, EK is set to bring a magical night of musical escape with the Timeless Magic Anniversary Show. The event will feature performances from G-Force, Janine Berdin, Zack Tabudlo, and EK’s homegrown talents—SMS, Victoria’s Way, and the Kingsmen. The day will end with the Timeless Magic Fireworks Show, synchronized with the 29th Anniversary theme song composed and sung by SMS.

EK’s SMS Shines with New Music:
EK’s P-pop girl group SMS will share their music on Spotify! Stream their first single “EK High! (Dance Like Me)” and watch out for the release of their new song “Meant to Shine.”

Scan this to access the Spotify of SMS and stream “EK High! (Dance)
Scan this to access the Spotify of SMS and stream “EK High! (Dance)

New Enchanting Ride:
Create more timeless memories with your loved ones with the new family thrill ride that will be coming soon.

Seamless Online Experience:
Enjoy optimized browsing with the addition of new features on the EK Mobile App. Guests can now receive push notifications for upcoming promotions and on-the-day events. Plus, special access when inside EK: plan your way around the park by checking estimated queue times for each ride right from the app. An enhanced EK Online Store will also be launched this October for a seamless booking and shopping experience.

Timeless Offerings:
Bring home the magic with the newest set of EK merchandise like the Eldar Pop, Twin Princesses Rag Dolls, and the six-piece set EK Christmas Baubles. Visit the merchandise shops, including the immersive tram souvenir shop at the EK Portico. Guests can also explore the newest gated attraction, the Midway Mirror Maze, and enjoy refreshments at the new Snaptooth Snack Station located at the Midway Boardwalk.

More Days of Timeless Festive Magic:
Make the most out of the holiday season at EK! The park will be open five days a week in October and every day starting December 15 until the first week of January.

For more information about this celebration and more of EK’s timeless magic, visit our Press Room at https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/ek-press-room/ and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines for Twitter and Instagram.

BingoPlus Unveils Pinoy Drop Ball: A Dynamic Digital Carnival Game

BingoPlus, the leading platform for digital entertainment in the Philippines, has just launched its latest game: Pinoy Drop Ball. This exciting addition combines the nostalgic charm of traditional perya (carnival) experiences with modern technology, creating a fresh and engaging gameplay opportunity.

“As a brand deeply rooted in Filipino culture, our mission has been to elevate traditional Pinoy entertainment and bring this experience to the modern age. Like our well-loved Filipino games, Bingo Mega, Color Game, and Papula Paputi, Drop Ball promises to reignite your excitement and engage you further in the BingoPlus platform,” said DigiPlus Interactive Corp. Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco during his speech at the grand reveal. “Drop Ball is another leap forward in this mission, as BingoPlus continues to bridge offline traditions with modern technology, creating a more seamless and exciting experience for all.”

Here are the key highlights of Pinoy Drop Ball:

  1. Live-Streamed Thrills: Pinoy Drop Ball is the first-ever live-streamed drop ball game in the country. Players can participate in real-time, adding a new dimension to digital carnival gaming.
  2. Cultural Fusion: As a brand deeply rooted in Filipino culture, BingoPlus aims to elevate traditional Pinoy entertainment. Pinoy Drop Ball seamlessly blends the familiar perya experience with cutting-edge technology.
  3. Multiplier Madness: What sets Pinoy Drop Ball apart is the chance to win big through multipliers. Players can enjoy the classic carnival feel while competing for prizes. Payout rules vary: a single ball on a card yields a 2x payout, two balls result in 3x, and three balls trigger a special Pachinko round with even bigger rewards.
  4. Immersive Experience: The bonus round in Pinoy Drop Ball features 15 slots filled with multipliers (ranging from 10x to 200x), intensifying the excitement. Triple cards can occur frequently throughout the day, and the game is available for live streaming 23/7.
  5. Rigorous Testing and Regulation: BingoPlus ensures fair play by meticulously testing and licensing its equipment through PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation). From stable playing tables to precisely weighed balls, every detail matters.
  6. Changing Hosts: To keep things fresh, BingoPlus switches hosts every 30 minutes, ensuring diverse ball-throwing styles and maintaining player engagement.

With Pinoy Drop Ball, BingoPlus continues to transform beloved Filipino games into rewarding digital experiences. Whether you’re reminiscing about local fiestas or seeking entertainment on the go, this game promises excitement and cultural resonance.

With the release of Pinoy Drop Ball, BingoPlus continues to revolutionize how Filipinos experience the games they’ve loved for generations in new and more rewarding ways.

DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms, BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and Gamezone, with more to come. BingoPlus is a leading platform for various forms of entertainment for Filipinos where players can explore tongits, bingo, perya games, and many other game choices to have fun at home. For more information, visit: www.bingoplus.com or download the app now from App store and Google Play

WORLD TRAVEL EXPO YEAR 8: THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION FOR TRAVEL ENTHUSIASTS

After the outstanding success of World Travel Expo Year 7, we are thrilled to announce the return of the most anticipated event in the travel industry—World Travel Expo Year 8, happening from October 18 to 20, 2024, at SPACE, One Ayala, Makati City.

Following the footsteps of last year’s blockbuster event, which gathered thousands of travel enthusiasts and industry professionals, World Travel Expo Year 8 promises to deliver even bigger and better opportunities for both exhibitors and visitors. As the go-to marketing platform for the travel sector, the event continues to serve as a vital bridge between international and local tour operators, airline companies, and travel authorities. This event is more than an expo—it’s a gathering of all things travel, offering the best deals, insights, and connections in the industry.

(L-R): Mr. Dino Dacanay, Marketing Director, INNOVATOR; Mr. Mark Christian Agustin, Sales and Marketing Supervisor, AQUAPLANET; Mr. Jud Errol Baldonado, Director for External Affairs, PATA LPU MANILA STUDENT CHAPTERL; Mr. Joshua Ayeras, Sales Manager and Ms. Jean Valdez, Director of Sales and Marketing, BERJAYA MAKATI HOTEL; Ms. Miles Caballero, Managing Director, AD ASIA EVENTS GROUP OPC; Mr. Melvin “MJ” Justiniano, Resort Manager, VILLA EXCELLANCE BEACH AND WAVE POOL RESORT; Mr. Ronald Allan De Vera, Marketing Head, PSA HELPLINE.PH

A Bigger Showcase in 2024! This year, the World Travel Expo will host over 160 booths in an expansive 3,000 sqm space, offering a comprehensive showcase of travel-related products and services. The expo will also feature forums, exclusive travel packages, and engaging activities designed to provide valuable information for both exhibitors and attendees. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast looking for your next adventure or a business seeking opportunities to network and grow, this is the event to attend!

“We’re excited to bring together the best the travel industry has to offer—not just for our exhibitors, but for every traveller eager to explore new destinations and discover unique deals,” said by Ms. Miles Caballero, Managing Director of Ad Asia Events Group. “World Travel Expo continues to be the ultimate hub where the industry connects and grows together

Event Details: 📅 October 18-20, 2024
📍 SPACE at One Ayala, Makati City
🕚 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

World Travel Expo 8 is supported and Endorsed by the Department of Tourism; Platinum Sponsor, DOOH, PSA Helpline.ph; Gold Sponsor, Club Wyndham Asia, Silver Sponsor and Official Hotel Partner, Berjaya Makati Hotel, Bronze Sponsors, Aquaplanet, Villa Excellance Beach and Wave Pool Resort, and Kandaya Resort, Event Partners, Media House Express—Ka Wanderer’s Connect; PATA LPU Manila Student Chapter

For more information and updates, visit our website and follow us on Facebook at World Travel Expo.

Ja Morant’s Second Signature Shoe, the Ja 2, is Built for the Next Generation of Playmakers

Quick, high-flying, anon d elusive, Ja Morant needs a shoe that keeps pace with his game and helps him get up.

Enter the Ja 2, Nike’s solution for Morant and the next generation of playmakers whose dynamic performance demands the highest levels of support, bounce, responsiveness, and control.

Building off the success of Morant’s first signature shoe, the Ja 1, Nike designers created a second-generation silhouette that maximizes comfort and support, defending against the rigors of a full season of takeoffs, landings, and lateral movement.

“From the Ja 1 to the Ja 2, the core things remain the same. The work ethic doesn’t change,” Morant says. “It’s about comfort, more bounce, and bringing my fans into some different storytelling they may not know. We tell those stories through the colorways of my shoe.”

The Ja 2’s forefoot Air Zoom unit delivers extra bounce and effortlessly guides athletes through quick shifts on the court, while a molded midfoot panel drives lockdown responsiveness and control for hoopers who run the break or break off defenders one on one. An underfoot traction pattern — inspired by the semitrailer tires Morant used to train in his childhood backyard — further allows athletes to cut with confidence.

The silhouette’s sidewall guardrail is designed to protect and stabilize, giving players the confidence to take off unexpectedly, and a waterfall-inspired collar lining and ankle padding add comfort for any kind of movement. A ballistic mesh upper improves breathability all the while, no matter how much heat the game brings.

Morant’s hands-on creative approach shows up in several design elements of the Ja 2, including colorways that reflect the feeling of watching him compete and his background as Nike Basketball’s first Gen Z signature athlete. The “Purple Sky” launch colorway, for example, is inspired by the fact that watching Morant in action — with his high-flying dunks, flashy ball handling skills, and intense energy — is as mesmerizing as looking up at a purple night sky.

The silhouette further reflects Morant’s story as a person and a player: It’s about his roots, his connection to the next generation, and how his drive to get up after getting knocked down can inspire us all.

Similar influences extend to the Ja 2 apparel collection, which speaks to Morant’s personal style, swagger, and connection to youth culture through energetic, artistic prints on his signature fleece hoodie and pants.

In a nod to Morant’s widespread influence on the game, his second signature silhouette will include kids’ sizes, and his fleece hoodie and pants will be available in extended sizes.

“In Nike Basketball, we get to work with the world’s best athletes, help them be even better on the court, and create a canvas to tell stories. We are excited for the world to wear the Ja 2 and to continue to be inspired by his growth and electric style of play,” says Josh Wachtel, VP/GM, Global Men’s Basketball. “The Ja 2 gives hoopers everything they need — it’s bouncy, fast, stable, looks great, and is available in kids’ sizes to serve the next generation.”

The Nike Ja 2 will be available on SNKRS and in select markets on September 26. The silhouette and apparel collection will be available globally at nike.com and select retailers on October 8.