SM Supermalls, 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, the job fair brings 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.

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 the government sectors

By combining DOLE’s extensive labor network and employment programs with SM’s accessible community spaces, the collaboration empowered 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," shared 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 he could 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 akong 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 many Filipinos are 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 puwede 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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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,” said 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 the SM Supermalls Job Fair Page or follow SM Supermalls on social media.

SM Supermalls released its newest anthem, “Gala To The Max,” performed by the rising girl group DNA.

Performed by the rising group DNA, the track is more than just a catchy earworm; it’s a tribute to the way we hang out today.

The message is clear: SM isn't just a place to buy things. It’s your "third space." It’s where you meet the crew, find your community, and—as the song says—live life to the max at your most loved mall.

More Than a Destination, It’s a Mood. “Gala To The Max” captures the essence of what it means to visit SM. 

Whether you’re there for a fitness milestone, a deep dive into your favorite fandom, a gaming marathon, or just a chill afternoon with your furbabies, SM remains the ultimate backdrop for every subculture.

SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing JonJon San Agustin emphasizes that the mall is an extension of the shoppers' identity, "At SM, we’ve always been about creating spaces where memories are made".

"With ‘Gala To The Max,’ we’re celebrating that unique energy our shoppers bring. It’s about your vibe and your tribe. Whether you're here to play, shop, or just hang out, we want you to feel that this is your space, the most loved mall that truly fits your lifestyle",  San Agustin added.

The Soundtrack to Your Next LSS

Produced alongside StarPop, the track features the high-energy vocals of DNA, a trio of sisters composed of Ezri, Julia, and Tasha. The song is designed to be the definitive background score for every TikTok transition and weekend hangout.

DNA members and real-life sisters (from left) Ezri, Tasha, and Julia could not hide their excitement as they brought to life (and ears) SM Supermalls’ newest jingle.

Join the Movement  

The official rollout begins this weekend across all SM malls nationwide. With more music and more reasons to stay longer than you planned, SM is officially calling on the community to show off their moves. Come as you are, bring your tribe, and show the world how you gala to the max.  

Major race events at SM malls in Cebu and SM Mall of Asia bring runners together through SM Active Hub lifestyle and sports programs

SM2SM run now on its 14th year where runners race from SM Seaside and SM City Cebu

SM Supermalls strengthened its position as one of the country’s premier running destinations as more than 32,000 runners filled two major race events in Cebu and SM Mall of Asia this weekend.

From large-scale road races to women-led running communities, SM spaces transformed into vibrant race venues where runners gathered to compete, celebrate milestones, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

As running continues to surge across the Philippines, many runners now look for venues that offer safe routes, accessible locations, and strong community support. 

Across its nationwide network, SM Supermalls has become a natural hub for runners, hosting major race events while providing everyday spaces where communities can train and grow. Today, this ecosystem spans 24 malls with dedicated running paths, supports 45 active running clubs, and has mounted 55 running events to date, reinforcing SM Supermalls’ position as a leading platform for the country’s growing running community.

SM2SM Run energizes Cebu’s running community

In Cebu, the SM2SM Run 2026 gathered 15,500 runners for its 14th year, marking historic highs for the event and reinforcing its place as one of the region’s biggest running events. Women made up 40% of participants, a record share that reflects the growing participation of women in the country’s running community.

The race connected two iconic landmarks, starting at SM Seaside City Cebu and finishing at SM City Cebu, turning the city into a high energy celebration of fitness and community.

The excitement extended beyond the finish line when one lucky participant won the grand raffle prize, a BYD Shark 6. The prize also reflects the growing shift toward electric mobility in the Philippines. 

Across more than 90 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls has built one of the country’s largest electric vehicle charging networks, allowing guests to conveniently charge their vehicles for free during mall hours while they dine, shop, or spend time with family. 

Through this integrated network, SM actively promotes the shift to cleaner mobility by making EV adoption more practical, accessible, and part of everyday consumer behavior.

The grand raffle winner, Desiree Villadolid, enjoyed a moment that perfectly matched the scale and excitement of the maxed-out SM2SM Run, adding another memorable highlight to race day.

Women’s Run celebrates strength and community

Meanwhile, at SM Mall of Asia, 16,500 runners joined the 2026 Filipina CEO Circle (FCC) Women’s Run PH in celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s Month. 

Of the total participants, 90% were women runners, highlighting the strong and growing movement of women embracing running as a lifestyle.

Now on its third year with FCC as title sponsor and SM Supermalls as co-presenter, the run continues to grow as a national platform that promotes women’s health, empowerment, and community through running.

SM Active Hub anchors running communities

Supporting these growing events is SM Active Hub, the sports and wellness platform of SM Supermalls that builds active communities across its malls.

From everyday training routes to major race weekends, SM Supermalls continues to create spaces where runners can move, connect, and experience life to the max.

Your most loved mall, SM Supermalls. Where lifestyle, community, and maxed-out experiences come together. All for you.

Women-led businesses took center stage as the WomenBizPH Trade Fair successfully opened at SM Lanang Premier from March 12–14, celebrating the creativity, resilience, and growing impact of Filipina micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Organized by WomenBizPH in partnership with SM Supermalls, the three-day trade fair brought together inspiring women entrepreneurs showcasing a vibrant mix of proudly local products—from artisanal pastries and handcrafted accessories to healthy snacks, woven apparel, delicacies, and wellness products.

More than just a marketplace, the event highlighted the powerful stories behind the brands, demonstrating how women entrepreneurs continue to transform passion into purpose and innovation into livelihood opportunities.

Women entrepreneurs take center stage at the WomenBizPH Trade Fair at SM Lanang Premier, where women-led MSMEs proudly showcase local products in celebration of Women’s Month.

Inspiring Stories Behind Women-Led MSMEs

Behind every product on display is a powerful story of determination, innovation, and purpose. Across the country, women entrepreneurs continue to transform challenges into opportunities, building businesses that uplift communities and preserve Filipino craftsmanship.

Empowering Artisans Through Creativity

Sustainable and timeless—these two words define the aesthetic of Sassy’s Creation Enterprise, a brand where traditional Philippine craftsmanship meets modern innovation. By blending heritage weaving techniques with contemporary design, Sassy’s Creation produces ethically curated fashion staples designed for EveryBODY, using upcycled fabrics and locally sourced weaves that reflect both sustainability and style.

Behind every Sassy piece are the skilled hands of women artisans, including home-based mothers and women from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Antipolo, Rizal, who carefully craft each item with dedication and pride.

Through these collaborations, the brand provides meaningful livelihood opportunities while celebrating Filipino craftsmanship.

By working closely with weaving communities and showcasing their handcrafted pieces through trade fairs and retail platforms, Sassy’s Creation continues to help preserve traditional Filipino crafts while bringing them into today’s lifestyle and fashion landscape. Discover their products on Instagram: @sassyscreationph

Sustainable fashion takes the spotlight as women-led brands present handcrafted apparel that celebrates Filipino craftsmanship and modern design.

Carrying Forward a Legacy

For Cynthia M. Eusebio, owner of Magpoc’s Pastry Products Manufacturing in Bataan, entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in family heritage.

Now a third-generation leader of the brand, Eusebio continues to innovate by expanding Magpoc’s reach through digital platforms and new product offerings while preserving the traditional recipes that built the business. Discover their products on Facebook: MagpocsAraroCookies

From Survival to Strength

For Cebu-based entrepreneur Cuevas Planas, founder of Kirby’s Chicharon, her business journey represents resilience and the courage to start over. “I started small, making chicharon and quietly selling to stores and offices. That small income became my hope and my courage—it helped me rebuild my life and prove that even from nothing, you can rise again,” she shared.

Through perseverance and faith, Planas built her brand from humble beginnings, eventually gaining the confidence to showcase her products in larger markets and trade fairs. Discover their products on Facebook: kirbyschicharonph

Turning Passion into Healthy Innovation

Meanwhile, Flaviano’s Health Food Products, based in Laguna, was born from a shared passion for creating innovative food products.

“Every challenge teaches us something. Even during difficult times like the pandemic, we continued  nnovating and moving forward—because every step we take brings us closer to success,” the entrepreneur shared.

Today, the brand continues to develop healthier food options while exploring new opportunities to reach more customers through platforms like SM Supermalls. Discover their products on Facebook: FlavianosFood.

SM Supermalls: A Launchpad for Future Filipino Brands

Through initiatives like the WomenBizPH Trade Fairs, SM Supermalls continues to serve as a marketplace where MSMEs can grow, gain visibility, and reach new markets.

 “At SM Supermalls, we see MSMEs not just as exhibitors but as future brands in the making. By providing accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can showcase their products and connect with customers, we help nurture the next generation of Filipino brands,” said Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls.

For many entrepreneurs, showcasing their products in SM malls represents a major milestone—opening doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and customers.

This commitment reflects SM Supermalls’ long-standing advocacy of supporting MSMEs as drivers of inclusive economic growth and community development.

Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs

This Women’s Month, SM Supermalls invites shoppers to discover the inspiring women behind these brands and support their journeys toward growth and success.

Because when women entrepreneurs rise, they do more than grow businesses—they uplift families, empower communities, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

We are all about that stan life. A new album from a rising artist? Fanboy/fangirl mode activated. A freshly opened concept store? Consider us a fan. Entering your fitness era? Support. 

Whether it's a personality we love or a lifestyle we aspire to, as long as it resonates with the life we want, we are stanning hard.

Here at SM Supermalls, you don’t need to look any further. Everything—and we mean everything—that will get you hyped up for months is right here. 

From the hottest new finds across Luzon to everyday essentials that hit different, these stores have us hooked, and we just cannot get enough. As your most-loved mall, SM continues to be an icon worthy of all our attention.

All For Our Foodie Stans

Ah yes, food. Who isn’t a fan, right? From familiar dining destinations to new food hubs to explore, we are stanning hard!

●             Pho Hoa

A fan of Vietnamese classics? The soon-to-open, first-in-Cavite Pho Hoa at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Bacoor serves soulful bowls of pho, alongside staple sides like spring rolls, vermicelli bowls, and flavorful rice plates. With meals that’ll remind you of your last trip to Vietnam, Pho Hoa is the perfect spot to savor the familiar flavors of the country.

●             Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings

For all our buffalo wings stans, the first-in-Bulacan Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings at the West Wing of SM City Marilao brings its iconic variations to the table, with flavors ranging from classic buffalo to garlic parmesan and honey sriracha. Craving wings? This is your chance to dig in until you drop.

●             Manam

And if you’re simply a fan of home, Manam in the Ground Level of SM City Marilao is your best pick! The first-in-Bulacan, Manam elevates Filipino comfort food with creative twists. Ever heard of their iconic Watermelon Beef Sinigang? Yep, that’s Manam for you!

All For Our Lifestyle & Fashion Stans

If she’s having it, we’re ALL having it. Trends let us feel part of a community where we truly belong. From accessories you can carry all day to lifestyle must-haves, we’re all about riding the hype.

●             Aquaflask Designs

If you're a fan of carrying your personality with you, the first-in-Batangas AquaFlask Designs makes hydration look good with functional, sleek tumblers that you can customize—from colors and sizes to all the accessories you can pair them with. Opening soon at the Ground Level of SM City Batangas, AquaFlask Designs lets your personality shine through whether you're heading to the gym, to class, or just malling around SM.

●             Sunnies Studios

Sunnies Studios continues to be a staple for eyewear and lifestyle essentials. Its newest store at the Ground Level of SM City San Pablo brings that signature cool directly to your everyday wardrobe and gets you looking like your idol. Known for trendy and timeless styles, Sunnies Studios offers a range of eyewear for all our accessories stans out there.

●             The Loop

All for our tech-savvy stans, The Loop at Level 3 of SM Center Tuguegarao Downtown is your newest go-to spot for anything gadget and gadget accessories, bringing in products that are sure to empower you whether you're a student, a professional, or just vibin’ through life.

●             Decathlon

For sport and adventure stans who love gearing up for every experience, the newest Decathlon at Level 3 of SM City Grand Central brings over 70 sports’ worth of equipment, apparel, and accessories into one space. From running shoes to yoga mats, hiking gear to swim essentials, Decathlon location makes it simple to shop for everything you need to stay active and stylish.

All For Our Wellness Stans

Wellness first? Healthy fitness habits? We can’t help but stan those who take good care of themselves—and lowkey, we all aspire to be like them!

●             Iremia Headspa

If wellness is your goal this year, Iremia Headspa at the 2nd Level of SM City Clark is where self-care becomes part of your everyday life. A first in SM, it offers structured head and scalp treatments focused on relaxation and reset. Wanna be your own #1 fan? This is the spot for anyone who’s ready to take their well-being seriously.

●             Anytime Fitness

For fitness stans focused on building a healthier body, the new Anytime Fitness at the Lower Ground Floor of SM City Trece Martires brings the globally recognized 24/7 gym experience right into your routine. 

Equipped with machines and tools for every fitness goal, AF is where your fitness journey becomes more accessible and more fun to return to.

ICONIC—SM Supermalls stan here! From the best in fitness and wellness to dining concepts you’re sure to love, whatever you’re stanning in life, your most-loved SM Supermalls has got it all for you.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events.