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.

Cha-Ching expands reach to 2 million youth as programme marks 10th anniversary

Pru Life UK and Prudence Foundation continue to fulfill their commitment to expanding and improving financial literacy coverage in the country, with their flagship financial education programme, Cha-Ching, recently reaching two million Filipino youth beneficiaries, a significant milestone that coincides with the program's tenth anniversary. 

To commemorate Cha-Ching's expanding reach and transforming impact, Pru Life UK hosted a Financial Literacy Summit and Engagement Session on June 16 at Cha-Ching partner Senate President Neptali A. Gonzales Integrated School (SPNAGIS) in Mandaluyong City.

The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders and key partners, including representatives from JA Philippines and JA Asia Pacific, key officials from the Department of Education's (DepEd) national and regional offices, teachers, and students, all of whom expressed strong support and shared commitment to the Cha-Ching and its current initiatives.

“I’m proud to see how Cha-Ching has given young learners the kind of financial education many of us wish we had growing up. Ten years in, and two million students later, the message is clear: the need is real, and so is the impact.” ~Atty. Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Senior Vice President & Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer

Among the event's highlights was a presentation of the Cha-Ching session, which showcased the program's dynamic, experience-driven approach to promoting beneficiary involvement. 

Beyond commemorating Cha-Ching's tenth anniversary and two million-reach milestones, the event also provided an opportunity to formally recognize and award the program's dedicated DepEd partners and Teacher Champions, who have been critical to the successful delivery of financial education sessions in schools.

[L-R] Vivek Kumar, JA Asia Pacific President and Chief Executive Officer; Maricel Estavillo, Pru Life UK Vice President for Takaful & Sustainability; Pia Warburton, Prudence Foundation Senior Manager; Nicole Ngeow, Prudence Foundation Executive Director; Atty. Calvin Kohchet-Chua, Pru Life UK Senior Vice President & Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer; Paula Patrice Dela Cruz, JA Philippines Director of Operations; and Dr. Krishna Alejandrino, JA Philippines Executive Director

A stakeholder reflection was also held, in which graduates, teachers, parents, and regional leaders were invited to offer views and provide insight on the programme, emphasizing Pru Life UK's commitment to continual improvement and innovation.

Cha-Ching is an award-winning global financial literacy programme developed by Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, Pru Life UK's parent company. It equips the next generation with the financial knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions that lead to financial wellbeing and a more resilient future.

In conjunction with JA Asia Pacific, a school curriculum program for children aged seven to twelve was created to impart money-savvy values, knowledge, and behavior. Over 3 million students have been taught the curriculum in 16 markets in Asia and Africa, with over 87,000 instructors trained to date.

About Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.  

 

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of over 35,000 licensed agents. 

  

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

 

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of FY 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.   

 

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.   

 

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph. 

 

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

 

Notes: 

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year  

 

 

Please use "Pru Life UK" when referring to the company.

 

About Prudence Foundation

 

Established in 2011 in Hong Kong, Prudence Foundation is the community investment and philanthropic arm of Prudential plc. 

The Foundation builds financial wellbeing, and climate and health resilience for underserved Asian and African communities. We are committed to sustainable, long-term solutions that empower individuals and communities to make informed financial decisions, access affordable financial products, as well as be more prepared and protected against climate related health risks. We actively engage in public-private partnerships, collaborate with governments, NGOs, communities and other private sector entities to build collective efforts for lasting change. To date, our programmes are implemented across 16 markets in Asia and Africa, reaching millions of people. 

For more information: www.prudencefoundation.com 

Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom. 

 

About Junior Achievement Philippines

Junior Achievement of the Philippines (JA Philippines) is a proud member of JA Worldwide®, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth. JA Philippines offers K-12 programmes focused on fostering financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship skills among young individuals. With nearly a century of experience, JA has implemented successful programmes across 123 countries, collaborating with academia, government, and the private sector.

 

JA Philippines has been recognized for its outstanding contributions and partnerships. The organization has collaborated with various corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects. This collaboration highlights JA Philippines' commitment to promoting economic empowerment and providing opportunities to the youth. The global impact of JA Worldwide has garnered significant recognition. The organization has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for two consecutive years due to its remarkable achievements in empowering youth globally and its ability to foster unity amidst diversity.

 

Are you passionate about empowering youth and shaping the future generation? Volunteer with Cha-Ching and be part of our impactful initiative recognized at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards! Join us in our pursuit of transforming lives, one student at a time. By becoming a volunteer, you'll play a vital role in equipping young minds with essential financial literacy skills; you may visit https://www.cha-ching.com/en/.

SM and DOLE Bring Freedom Through Opportunities this Philippine Independence Day

Successful hired-on-the-spot (HOTS) applicants proudly pose after securing jobs during the Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fair last year.

As the nation celebrates the 128th Philippine Independence Day, SM Supermalls and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) continue their long-standing partnership to bring meaningful employment opportunities closer to Filipinos.

This June 12, SM and DOLE will simultaneously mount Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs across 20 SM malls nationwide, bringing together employers, government agencies, and thousands of jobseekers in one of the country's largest coordinated Independence Day hiring initiatives.

For decades, SM and DOLE have worked hand in hand to make jobs more accessible to communities nationwide. The strength of this partnership was evident during the Labor Day Job Fairs last May 1, when DOLE organized simultaneous job fairs in 15 SM venues, supporting more than 17,000 jobseekers and resulting in over 1,000 hired-on-the-spot (HOTS).

DOLE representatives join forces at the Labor Day Job Fair, helping bring employment opportunities and essential services closer to Filipino jobseekers nationwide.

Job seekers participate in on-the-spot interviews with leading employers at the Labor Day Job Fairs nationwide last May 1.

The momentum continues in 2026. From January to May alone, the SM-DOLE partnership has already mounted 66 job fairs, served more than 57,000 jobseekers, which led to over 6,000 hired-on-the-spot, helping thousands of Filipinos take meaningful steps toward employment.

Jobs Today, Skills for Tomorrow

Beyond hiring, this year's Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs will also feature upskilling opportunities in partnership with DICT, TESDA, Jobstreet, and industry partners. Job seekers can explore learning opportunities in AI, cybersecurity, digital marketing, data analytics, virtual assistance, and other in-demand skills designed to improve employability and prepare them for the future of work.  

SM, DOLE, and partners cut the ribbon to open the Labor Day job fair last May 1.

Real Opportunities. Real Stories.

Behind every successful job fair are stories of hope and transformation.

One hired-on-the-spot applicant shared, "Nung sinabi po sakin na Hired on the Spot po ako sobrang saya ko po. Kasi magkakaroon na po ako ng trabaho para sa anak ko."

Another successful applicant said, "Ngayon natanggap na po ako sa Hypermarket, magiipon lang po, para ‘pag nakaipon na po pwede na po ulit makapag-aral."

For SM Supermalls, the impact goes beyond filling vacancies. "Through our Job Fairs, we create access to jobs, skills, and brighter futures. Every applicant hired and every opportunity created reflects our commitment to helping Filipinos move forward," SM Executive Vice President Joaquin San Agustin shared.

More Than a Job Fair

The Independence Day Job Fairs are designed as a one-stop employment hub. Beyond job opportunities, applicants can access government support services from NBI, SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, DOLE and PESO offices, and other partner agencies, helping streamline employment requirements and make the application process faster and more convenient.

Jobseekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resume, valid IDs, a ballpen, and relevant credentials. Many participating employers will conduct on-the-spot interviews and may offer immediate hiring opportunities.

Find the Nearest June 12 – Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs near you:

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
• SM City Legazpi
• SM City Bacolod
• SM Seaside City Cebu 
• SM CDO Downtown Premier
• SM City Davao

The nationwide effort continues with 17 additional SM Job Fairs scheduled across the country throughout June, including special industry-focused and sector-specific hiring events.

• June 3 - SM City Tuguegarao
• une 7 - SMX Davao - SM Lanang Premier (Tourism companies)
• June 9 - SM City Baliwag (STI job fair)
• June 9 - SM City Davao (ICT companies)
• June 11 - SM City Valenzuela
• June 11 - SM City Bacoor
• June 11 - SM City San Mateo
• June 11 - SM City Iloilo
• 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

Schedules and participating malls are subject to change without prior notice. For updates and the latest list of participating malls, visit the SM Supermalls Job Fair Page or follow SM Supermalls’ official social media pages.

Whether you are a fresh graduate, graduating student, first-time job seeker, career shifter, or experienced professional, there is an opportunity waiting for you.

A Continuing Partnership for Nation-Building

This Independence Day, SM and DOLE continue with their shared mission: creating opportunities, developing skills, and helping more Filipinos build better futures. More than matching jobs with talent, the partnership empowers people to support their families, strengthen their communities, and contribute to national progress. Together, SM and DOLE continue to prove that when the public and private sectors work hand in hand, opportunities grow, communities thrive, and the nation moves forward.

A day filled with hope, handshakes, and hiring. 

Visit the nearest SM Job Fair this June and take the next step toward your career journey.

About SM Supermalls – Job Fair

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.

Calls for Consistent CHED Lack of Leadership Grow as PSC Takes the Lead on Student Safety and Accountability After Two ADMU Athletes’ Drowning Incident

Previous sanctions involving universities renew discussions on CHED’s role in ensuring fair enforcement of policies across higher education institutions.

Following earlier concerns raised over governance, policy direction, and leadership practices within the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the agency is facing renewed scrutiny—this time over what stakeholders describe as its lack of decisive action on matters involving student welfare, safety, and institutional accountability.

The concern comes following the recent tragedy involving two Ateneo de Manila University student-athletes who drowned during a school-related activity, an incident that has sparked discussions on the responsibility of institutions and government agencies in ensuring proper safeguards are in place for students.

Amid calls for answers, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has taken visible steps in looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident and addressing concerns involving athlete welfare.

However, education stakeholders questioned why CHED—the government agency with direct oversight over higher education institutions—has yet to demonstrate the same level of urgency.

“Why is another agency moving while CHED remains silent?” critics asked, pointing out that while PSC’s actions show concern for student-athletes, the responsibility of ensuring compliance, accountability, and safety protocols among colleges and universities ultimately falls under CHED’s mandate.

Stakeholders also raised concerns over what they described as inconsistent enforcement of accountability measures, citing previous cases where institutions and officials faced consequences for violations involving student activities.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) men’s basketball team faced sanctions after conducting a training activity in Bicol, while National University (NU) was also penalized over continued training activities in Calamba despite restrictions.

No deaths or serious injuries resulted from these incidents. However, penalties were still imposed due to violations of CHED Memorandum Orders (CMOs) and Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) protocols, including the suspension of sports-related activities.

For stakeholders, these cases demonstrated that violations involving student-athletes were previously met with firm action—raising questions on why a tragedy involving loss of lives has yet to receive the same level of response.

They also cited the case involving former Bulacan State University President Dr. Cecilia Gascon, who was dismissed following the Madlum River tragedy where seven students died during a school activity.

The incident involved findings that students were allowed to participate without proper coordination and sufficient assessment of potential risks. The failure to comply with established safety guidelines resulted in serious administrative consequences, including Gascon’s removal from office.

Critics said these previous cases prove that accountability mechanisms exist when student welfare is compromised, making CHED’s current silence even more concerning.

For education stakeholders, the issue is no longer limited to a single incident but raises a broader question: Is CHED consistently exercising its mandate to protect students and enforce accountability among the institutions it regulates?

They emphasized that an agency tasked with overseeing higher education cannot remain passive when concerns involving student safety, institutional responsibility, and compliance arise.

As discussions continue, stakeholders said CHED’s response—or continued silence—will determine whether it can uphold the same standards of accountability expected from the schools and officials under its supervision.

For many in the education sector, CHED’s response in the coming days will not only define how this case is handled, but will also send a clear message on whether accountability remains a standard expected from all institutions — or a principle applied only in selected circumstances.

At the center of the issue are the students and families who trust universities to provide not only quality education but also a safe environment where every precaution is taken to protect them.

 Stakeholders stressed that when that trust is broken, silence cannot be the answer — leadership, transparency, and action must follow.

Chooks-to-Go’s New Campaign Captures the Soundtrack of Filipino Sarap

Chooks-to-Go, one of the top roasted chicken brands in the Philippines, is well-known for its "Masarap Kahit Walang Sauce,"  and its most recent campaign, "ChookChoo-O Ang Sarap," embodies the lively spirit of Filipino celebrations. Inspired by fiestas, regular salu-salo moments, and impromptu get-togethers over delicious food, the campaign's colorful music video and radio commercial capture the undeniable joy and sarap of every Chooks-to-Go experience.

Kyline Alcantara, one of the main individuals in the music video, adds to the excitement of the campaign by delivering youthful energy and a bright Filipino attitude.

The film, directed by the renowned Chooksie mascot, takes viewers on a colorful tour through some of the country's most festive traditions, from the brilliant streets of Lucban during the Pahiyas Festival to the lively atmosphere of Panagbenga and the frenetic spirit of Sinulog. Along the way, Chooksie distributes joy, music, and flavor, making every occasion a celebration.

"ChookChoo-O Ang Sarap" is more than simply a catchphrase; it expresses the undeniable satisfaction Filipinos feel when good cuisine brings people together. The campaign emphasizes the importance of Chooks-to-Go and Chooks Diner in generating unique bonding moments, whether during large celebrations or simply everyday meals shared with family and friends.

"ChookChoo-O Ang Sarap" is more than simply a catchphrase; it expresses the obvious joy Filipinos experience when good cuisine brings people together. The campaign emphasizes the importance of Chooks-to-Go and Chooks Diner in generating unique bonding moments, whether at major celebrations or over modest meals shared with family and friends.

“In the Philippines, sarap is never quiet. It is sung in festivals, danced in the streets, and felt in every salu-salo. This music video captures the spontaneous expression of joy that delicious food brings to Filipinos everywhere.” ~James Benedict Carreon, President of Chooks-to-Go Inc.

The ad, which has an uplifting jingle, bright images, and festive storytelling, celebrates the Filipino love of food, music, and togetherness. "ChookChoo-O Ang Sarap" elevates the basic act of sharing a meal to a joyful cultural experience, demonstrating that where Filipinos assemble, celebration inevitably follows.

The music video is now available on digital platforms and radio nationwide. Watch the music video here:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZZkn1hAZhU

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reel/2519445185152299

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chookstogo_ph/video/7642530584354508053

SM tapped as first mall operator to roll out DOE’s Oras Natin sa Efficiency (O.N.E.) effort

SM Supermalls and the Department of Energy lead the launch of the O.N.E. (Oras Natin sa Efficiency) campaign at the SM Mall of Asia Globe, promoting collective action for energy efficiency nationwide.

(L-R) Director Patrick T. Aquino, CESO III, Energy Utilization Management Bureau (EUMB), Department of Energy, Mr. Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls, Assistant Secretary Mandy Romero, Department of Energy, Ms. Nicole Cordovez, Binibining Pilipinas Grand International 2016, Secretary Sharon S. Garin, Department of Energy, Honorable Imelda G. Calixto-Rubiano, Pasay City Mayor, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations, SM Supermalls, Undersecretary Mario C. Marasigan, Department of Energy, Ms. Mhicaela "Bella" Belen, and Ms. Pauline Gaston.

SM joined the Department of Energy (DOE) in rolling out O.N.E.: Oras Natin sa Efficiency, a nationwide energy efficiency movement that calls on Filipinos to turn awareness into action through simple, collective energy-saving habits.

Launched through a ceremonial switch-off event at the Mall of Asia Globe, the campaign champions the importance of responsible energy use amid the country’s State of National Energy Emergency, declared under Executive Order No. 110, s. 2026, which cites geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions as critical threats to national energy security. 

Department of Energy Secretary Sharon Garin delivers the keynote message during the launch of the O.N.E. (Oras Natin sa Efficiency) campaign at SM Mall of Asia, reinforcing the call for collective action toward energy efficiency nationwide.

The O.N.E. campaign, anchored on the message “One Hour, One Energy, One Nation,” encourages coordinated energy reduction as a shared national habit. For SM, this means participating in anenergy reduction window where participating properties will switch off non-essential lights and reduce unnecessary energy use. 

During the ceremony, SM expressed its support for DOE’s call for energy responsibility, emphasizing that energy security is a shared concern that affects homes, businesses, communities, and the daily lives of millions of Filipinos.

“At first, one hour may seem small. One switch turned off. One appliance unplugged. One light dimmed. But when many people do it together, across homes, malls, offices, and communities, that one hour becomes something bigger. It becomes a shared habit. It becomes a national effort. It becomes a reminder that each of us has a role to play in protecting our country’s energy future.” ~Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Operations, SM Supermalls

Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, highlights the company’s operational commitment to energy efficiency in support of the Department of Energy’s O.N.E. (Oras Natin sa Efficiency) campaign at SM Mall of Asia.

As part of its operational commitment, SM will assign energy officers to monitor participation and report actual energy savings to the DOE. The initiative will also include the switch-off of non-essential lights such as pylons, façade lighting, and decorative displays during the designated reduction window, supported by proper coordination and monitoring across participating properties.

Beyond the ceremonial switch-off, SM emphasized that the campaign is about building lasting habits. Through its nationwide network of most-loved malls, SM will continue to share DOE-provided energy efficiency tips and information materials with tenants, employees, customers, and millions of daily visitors—encouraging them to carry the practice beyond the mall and into their homes and workplaces. 

Pasay City Mayor Imelda G. Calixto-Rubiano expresses support for the O.N.E. (Oras Natin sa Efficiency) campaign at SM Mall of Asia, underscoring the vital role of local government units in advancing energy efficiency and sustainability efforts. 

It is not just about one hour. It is about what that one hour teaches us. That energy efficiency can be practical. That sustainability can be part of everyday life. That small habits, when shared by many, can help move a nation forward

The O.N.E. campaign also aligns with SM Cares’ long-term environmental advocacy and the broader SM Green Movement, which promotes responsible energy use, climate action, and everyday sustainability practices. SM continues to strengthen its sustainability efforts through energy-efficient operations, solar initiatives, and EV charging efforts across its properties. 

Through its support for DOE’s O.N.E. campaign, SM reinforces the role of the private sector in helping strengthen national energy responsibility—showing that even the smallest actions, when done together and repeated consistently, can create meaningful impact.

Together, one hour can count for one nation.

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 89 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.

About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.