Jobstreet by SEEK has named homegrown coffee brand “But First, Coffee” as the recipient of the BizBayani Employer Excellence Award at the recent inaugural DITO BizBayani Awards. The special award was provided by the leading career platform in recognition of business leaders who have built high-performing, people-first workplaces while creating meaningful employment opportunities.
Launched this year by DITO Business, the DITO BizBayani Awards is a recognition program that celebrates Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the entrepreneurs behind them for their resilience, innovation, and contributions to their employees, customers, and communities. The initiative forms part of DITO Business’ broader commitment to supporting Filipino entrepreneurs with connectivity, technology, and resources that can help their businesses grow.
But First, Coffee stood out for its dedication to people-first leadership, inclusive hiring practices, and employee development programs. The company prioritizes character, potential, and learning agility alongside technical qualifications, opening career opportunities to undergraduates, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and individuals with limited work experience.
Founded as a one-person startup during the pandemic in 2020, But First, Coffee has since grown into a nationwide enterprise under the leadership of founder Anna Magalona Go, employing thousands of staff across its franchise network.
“Through the DITO BizBayani Awards, we want to highlight how small businesses can build strong employer brands even with limited resources. When entrepreneurs invest in learning agility, open communication, and employee care, they not only build stronger companies but also contribute to a more resilient job market for Filipinos,” said Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines.
“Investing in people is the true foundation of our long-term business growth,” shared Anna Magalona Go, Founder of But First, Coffee. “From handling barista duties on day one to supporting over a thousand employees nationwide, our focus has always been creating a culture of trust, open communication, and shared success.”
As part of the award, But First, Coffee received Jobstreet by SEEK’s Top-Up Reward Package worth over PHP 165,000, which is designed to strengthen its employer branding and talent acquisition efforts. The recognition formed part of the broader DITO BizBayani initiative, which supports small business leaders through connectivity solutions, learning opportunities, and resources aimed at sustainable growth.
