Municipality of Dupax del Sur Officially Adopts “Mabuhay” Gesture to Strengthen Tourism Hospitality
The Municipality of Dupax del Sur has officially adopted the “Mabuhay” gesture as part of its standardized tourism welcome protocol through Resolution No. 164, Series of 2025, approved during a regular session of the Sangguniang Bayan.
The resolution was spearheaded by Vice Mayor Hon. Michael L. Donguis, with the full support of the Sangguniang Bayan Members, underscoring the Municipality’s commitment to enhancing visitor experience and fostering a culture of warm and respectful hospitality.
The adoption follows the successful conduct of the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) training facilitated by the Department of Tourism – Region 2 for local tourism stakeholders. In line with the training outcomes, the Municipality formally institutionalized the “Mabuhay” gesture as a minimum standard practice in welcoming tourists and visitors.
To promote cultural identity and localization, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Nueva Vizcayano recommended the use of the Ilocano term “Agbiag” as the primary local equivalent of “Mabuhay.” This greeting is accompanied by a prescribed physical gesture—the respectful placement of the right palm over the chest and a gentle nod of the head—symbolizing sincerity, respect, and genuine hospitality.
Through this initiative, Dupax del Sur reinforces its commitment to providing a welcoming, culturally grounded, and distinctly Vizcayano tourism experience for all visitors.#
