Innovation Meets Opportunity: Livestock Philippines & Aquaculture Philippines 2026 Opens Today at World Trade Center Metro Manila

"This event represents a critical moment for the Philippine energy industry. As we face growing energy demands and the urgent need for sustainable solutions, The events provide the ideal environment for knowledge exchange, business partnerships, and technological innovation." ~Ms. Rungphech Chitanuwat, the Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines

Livestock Philippines 2026 and Aquaculture Philippines 2026, the top and leading conference for the livestock, poultry, and aquaculture industries, will take place at the World Trade Center today, June 24, 2026. The occasion will unite the nation's farming community to showcase ideas, form alliances, and advance sustainable growth.

The three-day event is anticipated to be the most significant platform for promoting the rapidly growing livestock, poultry, and aquaculture sectors in the Philippines, which are essential to the nation's economic development and food security.

Livestock Philippines & Aquaculture Philippines will welcome an amazing 11,000 guests and 300 local and foreign exhibitors spanning the whole energy sector, from energy efficiency technologies and grid infrastructure solutions to renewable energy and power generation.

A variety of conferences and seminars are available at the exhibition with the goal of addressing the most significant problems and opportunities in the livestock and aquaculture sectors. This year's events center around the Department of Agriculture Pavilion, which unites eleven government agencies under one roof. This unified presence, which provides direct access to financial programs, insurance plans, veterinary services, support for research and development, regulatory guidance, and market access, demonstrates the government's whole-of-agency commitment to agricultural growth.

The DA Pavilion, which facilitates farmers, producers, and business owners' access to the tools and assistance required to grow their operations and boost competitiveness, is a prime illustration of the vital collaboration between government and industry.

Strategic Importance for Philippine Agriculture Because of the country's growing population and the growing global need for high-quality protein, the cattle, poultry, and aquaculture sectors are at the forefront of the nation's development. The event showcases techniques and technology that ensure animal care, meet international market requirements, boost productivity, and promote sustainability.

Livestock Philippines and Aquaculture Philippines 2026 ignite partnerships that will increase food security, create jobs, and position the Philippines as a regional leader in sustainable agricultural production.

Visit Livestock Philippines and Aquaculture Philippines 2026, a worldwide trade expo featuring state-of-the-art poultry, livestock, and aquaculture production and processing. Develop relationships with influential corporate leaders, research novel concepts, identify solutions, and gain expertise.

Livestock Philippines and Aquaculture Philippines 2026:

Date: Wednesday, 24 June 2026

Time: 9:30 AM

Venue: Lobby Area, World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City

About Informa Markets

Livestock Philippines and Aquaculture Philippines are organised by Informa Markets, a division of Informa plc. Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate, and grow. We provide marketplace participants around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, targeted digital services, and actionable data solutions. As the world's leading market-making company, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com.

Calls for an End to Self-Serving Leadership Concerns Under CHED Chairperson Agrupis Grow Amid Questions Over Wastage of Government Funds

“Maraming hinahanap na requirements ang CHED bago makalabas ang mga bata sa confines ng unibersidad. Dapat may masasabi rin ang CHED sa mga ganitong issue.” ~One stakeholder said

When Kidlat Tahimik renounced the perks of being a National Artist, his message transcended the protest of a single artist. It became a powerful reminder of the need to protect Filipino culture, history, ethics, and the humanities at a time when worries about the country's higher education system are still being voiced.

The well-known director, whose real name is Eric de Guia, voiced concerns about what he believes to be the diminishing importance of the humanities and history in shaping the next generation.

But his stand has also opened a wider discussion — one that now puts the spotlight on the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the leadership of Chairperson Shirley Agrupis.

Critics are questioning whether CHED Chairman Agrupis herself is demonstrating the same commitment to historical preservation that it expects from the institutions under its supervision because of concerns that two important historical publications that the agency commissioned have not yet been released despite being completed.

The books, written by renowned historian Dr. Jaime Veneracion, were purportedly finished and ready for publication last year. Instead of being distributed to researchers, students, libraries, schools, and institutions, the documents are reported to have remained in storage.

Considered the first and only published institutional history of CHED since its inception in 1994, the first book describes the agency's accomplishments, reforms, challenges, and impact on Philippine higher education.

The second book, "The Chairperson Speaks," compiles the perspectives, experiences, triumphs, and challenges faced by each CHED Chairperson since 1994 as a historical narrative of the leadership that guided the organization throughout the years.

Some, however, questioned why such important historical works remained untouched under Agrupis' administration. Some have raised concern that the publications' lack of focus on the current administration—specifically, the absence of Agrupis' image on the cover or highlights of her accomplishments—may be the reason for the delay, given that the volumes were intended to document CHED's larger institutional history.

The two publications that CHED commissioned have reportedly been abandoned to collect dust at a CHED storage facility since 2025. This is viewed by many as a disrespect to the Filipino academic community and a wasteful use of public funds.

They stressed that these volumes were not created for any specific government, but rather for the benefit of schools, libraries, educators, legislators, and students who ought to have access to the history of Philippine higher education.

The issue raises a more important question for stakeholders: Should a body responsible for steering education's future allow its own history to be disregarded?

The conflict emerges as demands for CHED Chairman Agrupis to take on more leadership, accountability, and presence on issues affecting students and higher education institutions grow.

*Growing concerns about CHED Chairman Agrupis are expected to become one of the most important issues facing the incoming leadership of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education as the controversy raises more general questions about how CHED fulfills its mandate to uphold transparency, accountability, and responsible governance in an agency entrusted with shaping the future of millions of Filipino learners.

Additionally, observers observed that CHED Chairman Agrupis firmly requires schools to follow a variety of standards, including safety measures, documentation, and approvals, before permitting students to participate in off-campus activities. However, stakeholders question whether the agency responds with the same urgency when issues about institutional responsibility and student welfare arise.

Critics added that leadership in education should be defined by rulings that protect the public interest, preserve institutional memory, and support the academic sector rather than by prominence in ceremonies, titles, or honors.

As discussions continue, Kidlat Tahimik's symbolic position to defend culture and history has grown beyond the protest of a single artist to become a powerful call for accountability and to raise more significant issues with the leadership of CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis. Opponents argue that a group entrusted with shaping Philippine education in the future must also recognize the need of preserving its own past. In contrast to titles, personal recognition, or visibility, true leadership is defined by the responsibility to uphold public trust, preserve institutional legacy, and ensure that the knowledge and history created over many generations are not forgotten but rather passed on to the Filipino learners it was intended to serve.

Insta360 Launches Luna Ultra and Expands Retail Presence Across the Philippines

"As the Insta360 community continues to grow in the Philippines, our focus this year is to further enhance the customer experience through more educational exchanges, community engagement opportunities, and continuous improvements in our after-sales service standards. We believe great products should be matched with great support, helping creators get the most out of their creative journey." ~Henry Hsu, Principal Consultant, Insta360

The Luna Ultra, which combines professional imaging, intelligent stabilization, and AI-powered creative features in a small, portable design, marked Insta360's formal entry into the gimbal camera market in the Philippines. 

Co-engineered with Leica, Luna Ultra combines the image prowess of Insta360 with the well-known optical legacy of Leica to provide a potent tool for storytellers, filmmakers, and artists looking for high-caliber footage without the hassles of conventional camera systems. Insta360 Philippines is expanding its nationwide retail and customer service network in tandem with the introduction of Luna Ultra.

Alongside the launch of Luna Ultra, Insta360 Philippines is growing its statewide retail and customer service network. After expanding to more than 30 authorized retail locations in 2025, the company hopes to have 50 retail locations nationwide by the end of 2026. Customers and manufacturers in key areas will have easier access to Insta360 products as a result.

The expansion is a result of Insta360 Philippines' broader commitment to improving the customer experience through better post-purchase assistance, community service initiatives, educational campaigns, and more product accessibility.

Professional Imaging, Co-Engineered with Leica

The basis of Luna Ultra is a dual-camera system co-engineered with Leica that combines a Leica Summicron wide lens with a dedicated telephoto lens for greater creative options. Luna Ultra's dual imaging chips and 4nm AI processor enable better picture processing. Exceptional image quality in a range of shooting conditions and astute scene optimization.

The camera's 1-inch sensor generates stunning 8K video and high-resolution photos with exceptional depth, dynamic range, and color accuracy. Apart from the main camera, a Photographers may capture distant scenes without compromising image quality with a sophisticated telephoto system that provides up to 12× zoom, including 6× lossless zoom.

Support for 8K30fps recording, Dolby Vision, 10-bit I-Log, and Leica color profiles further

elevates the creative experience for both everyday creators and professional storytellers.

Intelligent Capture, Designed for Creators

Built around a compact 3-axis stabilized gimbal system, Luna Ultra delivers smooth and professional-looking footage in a lightweight form factor designed for everyday use.

An industry-first detachable 2-inch OLED touchscreen enables remote monitoring and control, while Deep Track 5.0 uses advanced AI-powered tracking to keep subjects perfectly framed. Together with PureVideo low-light technology and AI-assisted editing tools, Luna Ultra helps creators focus less on technical settings and more on storytelling.

Expanding Insta360's Presence in the Philippines.

The company is also preparing for the future opening of its first flagship store outside China, with Cebu being considered as a key location. The flagship store aims to provide an immersive brand experience where consumers can explore Insta360's latest technologies, participate in workshops, and engage directly with the growing creator community.

Availability and Pricing

Luna Ultra is now available in the Philippines through authorized Insta360 retailers nationwide, with two bundle options:

Suggested Retail Pricing:

• Luna Ultra Standard Bundle ‒ PHP 46,790

• Luna Ultra Creator Bundle ‒ PHP 59,490

About Insta360

Insta360 is a global leader in imaging technology, developing innovative cameras and creative tools that empower people to capture and share their stories in extraordinary ways.

For product information, store locations, and the latest updates, follow Insta360 Philippines' official social media channels and authorized e-commerce stores.

Follow Insta360 Philippines:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Insta360PH

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insta360_philippines/

Luna Ultra is available through authorized Insta360 retailers nationwide and official e-commerce

Europe’s Top AI Energy Brand, MARSTEK, Officially Launches in the Philippines Through ZK Summit Holdings Inc. at the MARSTEK Philippines Partners Summit 2026

“For the past five years, ZK Summit has successfully built businesses across multiple industries. But today, we are entering what we believe will be the most transformational era of our generation.” ~Dr. Mary Cruz

The leading AI energy brand in Europe, MARSTEK, formally started operations in the Philippines through ZK Summit Holdings Inc. under the leadership of Dr. Mary Cruz and Mr. Khelvin Cruz, CPA. At the MARSTEK Philippines Partners Summit 2026, which was held on June 20, 2026, at Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, the formal partnership was formed with Mr. Jeffrey Wang, Sales Vice President of MARSTEK Global, and Ms. Lula, MARSTEK Global Executive.

The historic event made MARSTEK's statewide distributorship options, plug-and-play battery systems, and innovative smart energy storage solutions available to the Philippine market.

The launch is a major step toward bringing AI-powered energy technology to Filipino homes, businesses, and communities at a time when the country is still struggling with rising electricity demand, grid reliability problems, and a growing need for dependable backup power solutions.

The company's entry is motivated by MARSTEK's exclusive partnership with ZK Summit Holdings Inc., one of the Philippines' fastest-growing multi-industry conglomerates. With more than 30 businesses and brands in the Philippines and Dubai, ZK Summit Holdings has built a strong business ecosystem encompassing technology, smart home systems, health and wellness, education, retail, logistics, AI solutions, consumer goods, and energy. The firm generates over ₱1 billion in sales annually and keeps expanding its portfolio in high-growth industries that align with innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation.

The partnership also supports ZK Summit Holdings’ 5-Year AI Mission, reinforcing the group’s commitment to bringing future-ready technologies to the Philippine market.

The company's Philippine distributorship program, which was designed to function as a platform for business development and a brand launch, was made available to qualified delegates of the MARSTEK Philippines Partners Summit 2026. Attendees looked into potential authorized distributors in nearby cities and municipalities in addition to having direct conversations with the MARSTEK Philippines Board of Directors and MARSTEK Global Executives. The seminar included important details on MARSTEK's technology, product roadmap, market strategy, plans for statewide expansion, and long-term prospects in the renewable energy and smart power sectors.

An important feature was the introduction of the MARSTEK Philippines Distributorship Program, a structured partner model designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners into the quickly growing energy storage and backup power industry. The program provides comprehensive product, sales, and technical training in addition to marketing materials, lead help, launch support, dealer growth direction, corporate partnership options, business expansion support, and access to the MARSTEK Philippines brand and product ecosystem.

Furthermore, MARSTEK showcased its primary product categories, which are tailored for the Philippine market and include portable power, plug-and-play battery systems, and whole-home energy storage solutions. The Power Station Collection's M1800, M2400, and V500 versions are designed for mobile power, outdoor use, and emergency backup. The Venus E 3.0 and V Series are part of the Plug-In Battery Collection, which offers convenient plug-and-play smart energy management for residential use. For larger homes, businesses, and properties, the MARSTEK MARS I PLUS Full Set Residential Energy Storage System provides high-capacity backup power, solar integration, and long-term energy independence.

When these product lines are integrated, MARSTEK Philippines can offer services to homeowners, condominium tenants, small businesses, offices, retail stores, vacations, farms, and corporate facilities.

“MARSTEK is more than a brand. It is a gateway to the next chapter of smart energy in the Philippines. And today, we are inviting you to be part of that chapter.” ~Mr. Khelvin Cruz, CPA

As the country continues to pursue energy security, the adoption of renewable energy, and smarter power infrastructure, MARSTEK Philippines is positioned to help Filipino homes, businesses, and communities store, manage, and access electricity more intelligently. With advanced AI energy technology, plug-and-play energy storage, and a scalable distributorship model, MARSTEK Philippines is well-positioned to help redefine smart energy management and backup power in the Philippines.

For more information about MARSTEK Philippines, its official launches, product offerings, and distributorship opportunities, visit marstek.ph. 

SM Supermalls Fuels the Biggest Running Movement in the Philippines

Galaxy Manila Marathon 42km gunstart on June 12, 2026

When more than 25,000 runners took over EDSA for the historic Galaxy Manila Marathon, they were not just participating in one of the country's biggest races. They were part of a growing movement that is transforming how Filipinos experience running.

From record-setting marathons and major race series to inclusive community runs and pet-friendly events, SM Supermalls is emerging as one of the driving forces behind Philippine running. Through its expanding portfolio of race events and the SM Active Hub platform, SM continues to bring world-class running experiences closer to communities across the country.

Runners took on the historic EDSA route, connecting SM Mall of Asia and SM North EDSA, with the course passing SM Megamall and crossing the iconic Guadalupe Bridge before looping back to SM Mall of Asia.

The Galaxy Manila Marathon marked a defining moment in that journey. For the first time, participants ran along EDSA, connecting SM Mall of Asia and SM North EDSA in a landmark race that celebrated fitness, community, and national pride. The historic route transformed one of the country's most recognizable thoroughfares into a symbol of movement and unity, creating a race experience that captured the imagination of runners from across the Philippines and beyond.

The success of the Galaxy Manila Marathon demonstrated SM Supermalls' ability to stage large-scale sporting events while delivering memorable experiences that extend far beyond the finish line.

But the Galaxy Manila Marathon is only part of a much bigger story.

Long before the historic race took over EDSA, SM Supermalls had already been building momentum through a diverse calendar of running events. Since the start of the year, thousands of runners have gathered at SM destinations for races such as the Earth Day Run, Star Wars Run, Doraemon Run, Women's Run PH, multiple legs of the Sante Barley Trilogy Run Asia, community fun runs, and fitness events that welcomed participants of all ages and fitness levels.

From the Star Wars Run for fans to the Pet Express Doggie Run for fur parents, SM Supermalls continues to champion inclusive running experiences that bring together communities of all ages, interests, and lifestyles. 

These events showcase the breadth of SM Supermalls' running ecosystem. From themed runs that bring together pop culture fans and families, to advocacy-driven races, competitive road events, and marathon majors, SM continues to create experiences that appeal to every type of runner.

From the vibrant Pride Run at SM City Lanang, which celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and community, to the Singlife Iloilo Marathon at SM City Iloilo, one of the country's premier race events, SM Supermalls continues to bring world-class running experiences closer to Filipinos while fostering active lifestyles and stronger communities nationwide. 

Building on that momentum, SM Supermalls continues to host and support some of the Philippines' biggest and most anticipated races, including the SM2SM Run in Cebu, Singlife Cebu International Marathon, Singlife Iloilo Marathon, HOKA Midnight Run Asia, Pride Run, Decathlon Run, Pet Express Doggie Run, Sante Trilogy Run Asia National Finals, and races under the Philippine Marathon Majors series. Together, these events are helping establish SM Supermalls as one of the country's largest and most diverse platforms for running and active lifestyles.

The Doraemon Run at SM Mall of Asia and Cebu's flagship SM2SM Run showcase the diversity of SM Supermalls' running ecosystem, offering experiences for everyone from families and first-time runners to seasoned athletes while promoting active lifestyles and community engagement across the country. 

Run with pride on June 21 at SM Mall of Asia and celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and community through movement. For registration details and event updates, visit the SM Mall of Asia Facebook page or RUNRIO's official channels. 

Continuing the momentum, thousands of runners are expected to gather at SM Mall of Asia on June 21 for the Pride Run, one of the country's largest running events celebrating Pride Month. Bringing together runners, allies, families, and communities, the event combines fitness, self-expression, and inclusivity in a colorful celebration of diversity. The run reflects SM Supermalls' commitment to creating spaces where people can come together, embrace active lifestyles, and celebrate what makes every individual unique.

Women's Run PH reflects SM Supermalls' commitment to creating inclusive running experiences, empowering women through fitness while strengthening communities through shared moments of movement and achievement. 

At the center of this effort is SM Active Hub, SM Supermalls' sports and fitness platform that connects communities through running events, fitness programs, training sessions, and wellness activities. Through SM Active Hub, runners gain access to year-round experiences that support every stage of their fitness journey, from training and recovery to race-day participation and community engagement.

Runners make the most of the MOA Sky running path at SM Mall of Asia, a popular training destination for participants preparing for SM Supermalls' growing calendar of running events and marathon experiences. 

What sets SM Supermalls apart is its ability to create seamless race-day journeys, from registration and race expos to training, recovery, dining, shopping, and entertainment, delivering the maxed-out experiences that today's runners and families seek.

From race kit claiming to meet-and-greet moments with Doraemon, SM Supermalls delivers maxed-out experiences that extend beyond race day, creating exciting and memorable moments for participants of the Star Wars Run, Doraemon Run, and other community-driven running events. 

Through its network of 90 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls has transformed running into a movement that reaches communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. From a historic 25,000 runners at the Galaxy Manila Marathon to more than 100,000 participants expected across its race calendar, SM Supermalls is helping shape the future of running in the Philippines.

As the country's most loved mall, SM Supermalls continues to create destinations where every finish line leads to new experiences, every race becomes a shared celebration, and every runner feels part of something bigger.

Because when the Philippines runs, it runs through SM Supermalls.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM.

Water finds its second life through SM Green Movement’s conservation program

In 2025, SM recycled 6.6 million cubic meters, or roughly 6.6 billion liters of water – an amount that is equivalent to nearly a thousand times the water consumption of Metro Manila daily.

According to the United Nations, nearly half the global population faces severe water scarcity for at least one month every year. For SM, its year-round advocacy takes on greater urgency amid rising water scarcity concerns and a prolonged El Niño. As climate pressures and escalating water demand intensify strain on water resources, SM Supermalls steadfastly prioritizes water conservation and the circular use of this essential resource. 

An advocacy that started 30 years ago

SM Supermalls’ initiatives began in the 1990s with the installation of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at SM Southmall, aimed at conserving water and protecting the environment of nearby communities. Since then, the mall operator has expanded its water conservation efforts, with 90 malls now equipped with facilities that recycle wastewater annually. 

The mall operator has also embraced innovation to help reduce flooding and enhance water recovery efforts. SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility, for example, collects and treats rainwater for operational use by its tenants and kitchen facilities. From its first day of operations in November 2022 to December 2025, the facility has processed 53,740 cubic meters of rainwater, equivalent to serving an estimated 63,706 households.

“Since the 1990s, SM has always prioritized the welfare of nearby communities and the environment. Water is a very precious resource, and we are committed to ensuring its sustainable use for the benefit of present and future generations. As SM Supermalls moves forward, it will continue to pioneer environmental systems and practices across our malls. We will continue working towards a resilient, sustainable, and eco-friendly future.” ~Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability

SM Supermalls’ integrated networks recycle waste and rainwater for non-potable applications such as cleaning, irrigation, and watering its greeneries across its properties. Not only do the systems reduce demand for fresh water, but they also drive more sustainable and resilient operations, especially during seasonal shortages. 

The institution has accelerated its water conservation initiatives in its two new malls in 2025. SM City La Union has a 760-cubic-meter rainwater catchment system and a 543-square-meter sewage treatment plant, enabling efficient water use and enhanced wastewater management. Meanwhile, SM City Laoag has a self-sustaining water network that converts deep well water into a potable supply.

SM Supermalls' longstanding green initiatives have garnered multiple industry distinctions, including the Bantayog ng Lawa Para sa Kalikasan from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) awarded to SM Mall of Asia and the first ever Gawad Taga-Ilog Award bestowed upon a private entity by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to SM Prime for supporting water stewardship.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

Over 21,000 Filipinos Access Job Hiring and Upskilling Opportunities

SM in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) hosted the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs throughout SM’s nationwide network of most-loved malls

SM Supermalls in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) strengthened their long-standing partnership to once again transform malls into venues of opportunity, hope, and new beginnings through the nationwide Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs mounted across 20 SM malls nationwide, bringing together over 800 employers and over 21,000 job seekers, with more than 1,900 hired on the spot—highlighting the continued impact of accessible, community-based employment initiatives that help Filipinos move forward.

Enhanced Community Opportunities: On top of connecting over 21,000 jobseekers to 800 employers all over the country, the SM-hosted Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs also shared future-ready skills to attendees through upskilling opportunities. 

From fresh graduates and first-time job seekers to career shifters and experienced professionals—Filipinos gathered at SM malls this June 12 in search of meaningful employment opportunities, many of whom were interviewed and hired on the spot.

(L-R) Pasig Coun. Hon. Angelou De Leon (in black); Dennis Martel; Dannah Majarocon, Jobstreet by Seek;  Martin Jesse Hererra, SM Regional Operations Manager; Pats Dy, Senior Asst. Vice President for SM Communities Marketing; Ronald Allan Brosas SM Senior Asst. Vice President for Operations; Royce Cabunag, Asst. Vice President and Lead for SM Communities; Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto; Pasig Vice Mayor Dodot Jaworski; Councilor Simon Tantoco (in black); Councilor Boyie Raymundo; Councilor Ryan Enriquez; Councilor Warren Incencio; and Councilor Paul Senogat with representatives from SM, the Pasig City LGU, and Government sectors

“Samantalahin natin ang lahat nang programa ng pamahalaan lalo na’t habang nandito tayo. Sa SM maraming salamat–ang importante nagtutulungan po tayong lahat at ginagawa natin ang lahat nang ating makakaya.” ~Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto

By combining DOLE’s extensive labor network and employment programs with SM’s accessible community spaces, the collaboration succeeded in empowering local communities—bringing jobs, crucial government support services, and future-ready skills directly to the doorsteps of everyday Filipinos. This year’s Independence Day Job Fair also continued SM’s growing focus on workforce readiness and future-ready skills.

"By partnering with the private sector, mas naging convergent ang ating approach para mas maibigay ang serbisyo ng pamahalaan sa ating mga kababayan. Maganda ang pakiramdam na makita ang ganitong turnout at pagkakaisa lalo na ngayong Araw ng Kalayaan." ~Ryan Roberto Delos Reyes, Supervising Labor Employment Officer of DOLE NCR

For Patrick Tamayo, who secured a position as a Mobile Promoter, the opportunity meant being able to help his family.

"Masaya po ako na hired-on-the-spot ako. Matutulungan ko na po ang pamilya ko. Hindi ko po inaasahan na mabilis po ako matatanggap," he said.

For Ma. Jamaica Pabunan, Independence Day became more than a celebration—it became an answered prayer. 

"Naghahanap po talaga ako ng trabaho kaya pinagdasal ko po talaga na matanggap ako and answered prayer po," she shared after being hired on the spot as a Pharmacy Assistant. "Pangalawang job fair ko po itong napuntahan, pero iba po dito sa SM, organized po talaga." 

Their stories were among the many success stories that unfolded during the SM Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs, mounted nationwide by SM Supermalls and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

A Partnership That Creates Opportunities

The success of the initiative reflects the enduring partnership between SM Supermalls and DOLE, united by a shared mission of making employment opportunities more accessible to Filipinos.

By combining DOLE's labor programs and employment network with SM's nationwide presence and community reach, the partnership continues to bring jobs, government services, and workforce development opportunities closer to where people live. 

Across participating malls, applicants explored opportunities from industries such as retail, banking, IT-BPO, hospitality, logistics, food service, education, healthcare, and customer service. Through face-to-face interviews, employers were able to connect directly with qualified candidates while applicants gained immediate access to job openings.

For participating employers, the event also provided an opportunity to support a larger cause. "We joined the job fair not just to fill available positions but also to be part of SM's advocacy this Araw ng Kalayaan. We know there are many Filipinos looking for opportunities," shared Hermie, Talent Acquisition Specialist of Home Credit.

Lisa, Assistant Human Resource Manager of Mesco, Inc., echoed the importance of bringing multiple employers together in one accessible venue. "It's an opportunity for jobseekers to see and apply to different industries in one place. Mas malaking chances for jobseekers," she said.

From Job Fair to Career Growth Hub

This year's Independence Day Job Fair also continued SM's growing focus on workforce readiness and future-ready skills. In partnership with TESDA, DICT, Jobstreet, and other stakeholders, selected venues featured learning opportunities in AI prompting, cybersecurity awareness, Canva basics, digital skills, and livelihood development programs. 

Upskilling for the future: With the support of stakeholders like TESDA, the DICT, and Jobstreet Philippines, selected venues offered digital learning opportunities.

"Here at SM Job Fairs, we promote the freedom to grow, the freedom to upskill, and the freedom to find the job that suits you," said Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK. The impact of these learning opportunities extended beyond employment.

For Rhodora Felipe of Pasig, learning how to create doormats and potholders opened new possibilities to support her family. "Malaking tulong po itong skills na ito sa amin dahil pwede kong gamitin ito para makatulong sa gastusin at baon ng mga bata," she shared. Linalyn Calingasan, another participant, hopes to turn her newly learned skills into a livelihood opportunity with support from local partners. 

More Than a Job Search

Jobseekers access over 800 employers in a convenient venue that assembles employment and upskilling opportunities with one-stop government services for crucial employment requirements.

To make the experience more convenient, SM Job Fairs also featured a One-Stop Government Service Express through participating agencies such as SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, NBI, PESO, and other institutional partners.

Applicants were able to process employment requirements, seek guidance, and access support services in a single venue—saving both time and resources.

This integrated approach reflects the continuing evolution of SM Job Fairs from traditional recruitment events into community platforms that connect Filipinos not only to jobs, but also to skills, services, and opportunities for long-term growth.

Creating Real Impact Nationwide

Mounted simultaneously across SM malls nationwide, the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs demonstrated the power of public-private collaboration in creating meaningful opportunities for Filipino communities.

Behind every application submitted, every interview conducted, and every job offer extended is a story of determination, hope, and aspiration.

Power in public-private partnerships: Through the SM Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs, SM supports the DOLE’s efforts to extend employment opportunities to Filipinos all over the country through ease and convenience

For some, it meant securing their first job. For others, it meant starting over, supporting a family, or discovering new skills that could open additional sources of income.

1,900 jobseekers were hired-on-the-spot in one day nationwide–adding to the growing pool of employed Filipinos thanks to strong collaborations between employers, government agencies and essential documents and upskilling services.

These are the stories behind the more than 1,900 hired-on-the-spot applicants—and the reason why SM Supermalls and DOLE continue to strengthen their partnership year after year.

"Pagmalasakitan ninyo 'yung obligasyon ninyo sa kumpanya, nang sa gayon ay sila ay lumago [...] at patuloy silang maghahanap ng trabahante. [And] that is my goal. That is our vision. That is our program. To provide as many jobs as we can — jobs for everyone.” ~Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno

Because freedom is not only celebrated—it is empowered through opportunities. And when opportunities are brought closer to communities, lives are changed, families are uplifted, and the nation moves forward.

Jobseekers experience fast application to employment in just one day.

More Opportunities Ahead

For those who were unable to attend the June 12 Independence Day Job Fair, SM Supermalls continues to mount job fairs year-round across malls nationwide—bringing opportunities closer to communities every month.

JOB FAIR SCHEDULE IN JUNE:

• June 16 - 17 - SM City Novaliches (QC University Job Fair)
• June 16 - 17 - SM City Iloilo (ICT companies)
• June 17 - SM City Calamba
• June 18 - SM City Bacolod 
• June 18 - SM City Daet
• June 19 - SM City Baliwag (NU Job Fair)
• June 25 - SM City Trece Martires
• June 27 - SM City Bataan (Trabaho at Negosyo)
• June 30 - SM Center Muntinlupa

Note: Schedule may change without prior notice. For updates, visit SM Supermalls Job Fair Page or follow SM Supermalls on social media.

About SM Supermalls – Job Fairs

SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s leading mall developers—continues to maximize the job fair experience by bringing employment opportunities closer to Filipinos through accessible job fairs in malls nationwide. As the country’s most preferred and loved retail destination, SM designs job fair experiences that respond to the evolving needs of different job seeker tribes—from fresh graduates and first-time job hunters to career shifters and experienced professionals seeking their next opportunity. More than a venue, SM serves as a platform where talent meets opportunity—connecting job seekers with employers, strengthening workforce development, and supporting inclusive economic growth through strong public and private partnerships. Because meaningful opportunities should be within reach—designed with every Filipino’s future in mind. All For You.