P-Noy, others laud ServiceMaster's local franchisee

MANILA, Philippines - With Tyrena Holley, US Commercial Attache, as special guest of honor and President Aquino sending a message, Facilities Managers, Inc. (FMI) celebrated its 15th anniversary last Oct. 21 amid a modest but festive atmosphere at the Ayala Museum in Makati City.

In his message, President Aquino said “FMI’s dedication to abide by the standards of excellence and professionalism has contributed significantly to job-generation, to the improvement of our local industries, and, ultimately, to nation-building. Through your commitment to providing reliable and efficient outsourcing services, you have helped boost the success both of your employees and of your various clients. I wish you continued success and we look forward to a strengthened partnership with you.” For her part, Holley exhorted FMI to further pursue its commitment to excellence and must always be steadfast in the common goal to help spur the nation’s growth.

Among the well-wishers was Sen. Manny Villar who said, “Since its founding, FMI has never faltered in its commitment to provide professional facilities management service to various sectors. I acknowledge its invaluable contribution to our many businesses and industries. I wish an outpouring of blessings on this happy occasion and the years ahead.”

Edilberto B. Bravo, FMI chairman, responded by saying: “We are grateful to all our partners, customers and friends who continue to believe in our capabilities to deliver services and exceed their service expectations. As we celebrate our 15th anniversary, we take this opportunity to publicly declare our strong commitment to quality service befitting a world class company that Facilities Managers Inc. represents.”

Established in 1996, FMI, which is the master franchisee of America’s ServiceMaster in the Philippines, started as a janitorial and housekeeping services network.

It would expand quickly to property restoration arising from disasters, grounds care and landscaping, facility operations and maintenance, pest control, and housekeeping and office services, among other services.

An affiliate of U-BIX Corp. that also has Bravo as its chairman, FMI was basically an outsourcing company, boldly breaking barriers at a time when outsourcing was as greek as the iPod in the Philippine mainstream business.

From a mere handful but highly-skilled first batch of employees 15 years back, FMI’s manpower has grown to almost 4,000, with practically everyone armed with special attributes to provide the best available services every business is looking for.