Stronger Futures Begin at SM Job Fairs as Thousands of Filipinos Find Work This Labor Day

This Labor Day, SM reinforced its commitment to empowering Filipino communities by hosting job fairs across 15 locations nationwide, bringing together 650 employers and over 17,400 jobseekers in one масштаб initiative.

More than 1,000 applicants were hired on the spot, proving that accessible, community-based job platforms can deliver real, life-changing results.

But behind these numbers are stories that matter most, stories of courage, determination, and fresh beginnings.

Across various SM malls, thousands of hopeful applicants arrived with resumes in hand. Many left not only with job offers, but with renewed confidence and a clearer path forward. The SM Job Fair once again proved to be more than a hiring event, it became a bridge connecting jobseekers, employers, and government agencies in one convenient and familiar space.

For individuals like France Barcial and Mark Andrei Jimenez, the day marked a turning point.

“Hindi ko po expected na ngayon din ako matatanggap, baka sakali lang po,” he shared emotionally. “Meron na po akong pang-suporta sa college ko sa PUP.”

“Malaking tulong po ito sa pamilya namin. Kung sa iba po, baka nag-antay pa ako kung kailan ako tatawagan. Dito po, hired agad,” another applicant expressed.

Moments like these echoed throughout the venues, as hiring booths transformed into spaces of opportunity, where quick interviews led to immediate employment, and uncertainty turned into hope.

What sets SM Job Fairs apart is their accessibility and efficiency. From submitting applications to attending interviews and even processing government requirements, everything is available in one location. This streamlined setup allows jobseekers to focus on what truly matters: landing a job and building a future.

Miss Rea Amata from the Labor Relations and Public Employment Service Office of Marikina highlighted the importance of such initiatives:

“Malaking bagay ito para sa mga Pilipino, lalo na sa constituents namin sa Marikina. Bringing opportunities closer to communities is key, and SM provides that platform. Isipin mo, hindi ka na dadayo at gagastos para maghanap ng trabaho.”

Employers also value the direct connection these job fairs create. Noelle Tupas of Work Makers Manpower Corporation shared how face-to-face interaction improves hiring outcomes:

“We’re able to meet qualified candidates faster and more efficiently. This is our second time joining, and some of our previous hires are still with us. Here, you immediately see potential, which makes hiring more meaningful.”

Beyond immediate employment, SM is also investing in long-term workforce development. Through partnerships with institutions like the Department of Information and Communications Technology, jobseekers can access digital training and AI-focused learning sessions designed to enhance their skills and competitiveness.

“We have certificate trainings and seminars that add value and knowledge to our applicants,” said DICT trainer Erika Zamora. “We’ve seen many participants get hired or expand their freelancing opportunities because of these programs.”

For many attendees, these upskilling opportunities are just as impactful as job placements.

“Hindi lang po ito para sa IT professionals. AI age na po talaga tayo. Lahat ng gustong magtrabaho, makikinabang dito,” shared Alberto Eder.

Through strong collaboration between private companies, government agencies, and institutional partners, SM Job Fairs continue to create meaningful change, opening doors, supporting livelihoods, and strengthening communities.

As the day ended, what lingered were not just filled job vacancies, but powerful reminders of resilience, determination, and new beginnings. At SM Supermalls, bringing people together is only the start, helping them move forward is what truly matters.