City adopts ‘Mabuhi’ as official greeting

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City government has formally adopted “Mabuhi” as the official greeting in all frontline public service offices in the city.

The greeting, performed by placing the right hand over the left chest accompanied by a slight nod, is intended to highlight Cebuano identity while promoting professionalism and hospitality in government transactions, according to city officials.

It was formally introduced during the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Seminar conducted by the Cebu City Tourism Office in coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Councilor Nyza Archival, author of the resolution institutionalizing the greeting, explained during deliberations that the practice forms part of the DOT’s nationwide program aimed at instilling warmth and sincerity in public service.

“This is to adopt the Mabuhay Gesture as the official greeting, welcome, and hospitality in the City of Cebu,” Archival said as she moved for the approval of the resolution.

Resolution No. 17-3778-2026, passed by the City Council last month, institutionalizes the gesture for personnel assigned at public assistance and complaints desks and other government employees who directly interact with the public.

The measure aligns with Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, which encourages government agencies to provide efficient and customer-friendly services.

During the deliberation, Councilor Alvin Arcilla requested a demonstration of the gesture.

Archival obliged by placing her hand on her chest, bowing slightly, and saying “Mabuhay.”

Arcilla then quipped, “Mura ta’g taga Philippine Airlines,” noting its similarity to the greeting used by flight attendants of the airline company.

Councilor Joel Garganera later raised the issue of language, pointing out that “Mabuhay” is a Tagalog term.

“Would it be proper if we will use a Bisaya term for the gesture—‘Mabuhi’?” Garganera asked.

He stressed that while the DOT had recommended “Mabuhay” as part of its nationwide program, Cebu City should emphasize its own heritage.

“Anyway, it has the same meaning, Mabuhay, Mabuhi. But to give it focus on our heritage and culture, let us showcase by using the very language that makes us Bisaya,” Garganera said.

Archival agreed, responding, “I yield, Mr. Chair.”

Presiding officer Councilor Winston Pepito, acting as vice mayor, confirmed the amendment, and the Council unanimously approved the resolution with “Mabuhi” as the official term.

City officials emphasized that the adoption of the gesture aims to strengthen cultural identity and enhance the quality of frontline public service.

By localizing a nationally recognized practice, Cebu City hopes to showcase its distinct heritage while remaining aligned with the DOT’s Filipino Brand of Service Excellence.

Other local government units have also adopted institutional greetings that reflect their regional identity.

In Nueva Vizcaya, the provincial government adopted “Agbiag,” an Ilocano expression meaning “long live,” alongside the DOT’s “Mabuhay Gesture,” while in Bicol, government offices and tourism establishments continue to use “Mabuhay” but often incorporate local expressions of welcome during festivals and public events. — /FPL (FREEMAN)