Freedom Through Employment: How SM and DOLE are Empowering the Filipino Workforce

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

This Independence Day, the definition of freedom is evolving. For thousands of Filipinos, true independence is found not just in celebration, but in the power of choice—the choice to pursue a career, support a family, and build a brighter future. As the Philippines commemorates its 128th Independence Day, the long-standing partnership between SM Supermalls and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reaches a new milestone, transforming malls into hubs of hope and tangible opportunity.  

A Nationwide Movement

On June 12, the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs will take place simultaneously across 20 SM malls nationwide, creating a massive, accessible bridge between employers and Filipino talent. This initiative is far more than a simple recruitment drive; it is a one-stop employment hub designed to streamline the journey toward gainful work.  

Beyond just interviewing for jobs, attendees gain access to essential government support services—including NBI, SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG—making the path to employment smoother and more efficient.  

Building on Proven Success

The impact of this collaboration is already profound. In 2026 alone, from January to May, the SM-DOLE partnership successfully mounted 66 job fairs, serving over 57,000 job seekers and facilitating over 6,000 "hired-on-the-spot" (HOTS) success stories.  

These numbers represent real lives changed. For many, the result is immediate security and a path to long-term goals. "Nung sinabi po sakin na Hired on the Spot po ako sobrang saya ko po," one applicant shared. "Kasi magkakaroon na po ako ng trabaho para sa anak ko". Another successful applicant noted, "Ngayon natanggap na po ako sa Hypermarket, magiipon lang po, para ‘pag nakaipon na po pwede na po ulit makapag-aral".  

Skills for the Future

The commitment to the Filipino workforce extends into the future. Recognizing that today’s economy demands agility, the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs integrate upskilling programs in collaboration with DICT, TESDA, Jobstreet, and other industry partners. Job seekers have the opportunity to engage with training related to high-demand digital skills, including:  

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity  

Digital Marketing and Data Analytics   

Virtual Assistance   

"Sa pamamagitan ng ating Job Fairs, nagbibigay tayo ng access sa trabaho, bagong skills, at mas maliwanag na kinabukasan," says SM Executive Vice President Joaquin San Agustin.  

Join the Movement

Whether you are a fresh graduate, a career shifter, or an experienced professional, the next chapter of your career could be waiting at an SM Job Fair.  

Participating Malls for the June 12 Job Fairs:

Metro Manila & Luzon: SM Megamall, SM City Marikina, SM Center Sangandaan, SM City East Ortigas, SM City San Lazaro, SM Center Las Piñas, SM City Sucat, SM City Rosales, SM City La Union, SM City Laoag, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM City Telabastagan, SM City San Jose Del Monte, SM City Dasmariñas.  

Visayas & Mindanao: SM City Legazpi, SM City Bacolod, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM CDO Downtown Premier, SM City Davao.  

Opportunities do not stop on June 12. SM has lined up 17 additional job fairs throughout the rest of June, focusing on sectors like tourism, ICT, and hospitality.  

When you visit, remember to bring multiple copies of your updated resume or CV, valid IDs, a pen, and any relevant certificates or credentials to ensure you are ready for on-the-spot interviews.  

Because opportunities move people forward, SM and DOLE continue to ensure that every Filipino has the chance to reach their dreams—all for you.  

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