SM Malls in Sangandaan and Valenzuela Open Nearly 10,000 Opportunities Through Kalayaan Job Fairs

In observance of the 128th Philippine Independence Day, SM Center Sangandaan and SM City Valenzuela helped bring economic freedom closer to thousands of residents. Together with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the malls hosted back‑to‑back Kalayaan Job Fairs, offering nearly 10,000 local and overseas employment openings.

Across the two‑day initiative, 81 companies participated, listing 9,947 vacancies spanning various industries. This effort underscores SM Supermalls’ commitment to community empowerment—making quality career paths accessible right where people live.

Day 1: SM City Valenzuela — June 11

The series began at SM City Valenzuela, where 31 employers presented 2,190 local and overseas positions. Around 1,130 jobseekers attended, and 385 applicants were hired on the spot—clear proof of strong demand and effective matching between talent and businesses.

Day 2: SM Center Sangandaan — June 12

On Independence Day itself, activity shifted to SM Center Sangandaan with 50 participating firms offering 7,757 opportunities. Openings covered retail, BPO, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, food service, hospitality, and other growing sectors—giving attendees a broad range of choices. 

More Than Just Hiring: A Complete Support Hub

Beyond connecting applicants to employers, the fair served as a one‑stop center for requirements. Attendees could process documents directly with agencies including:

- NBI • SSS • PhilHealth • Pag‑IBIG Fund • DOLE • Local PESO

Career‑building resources were also available through partners such as the DICT, TESDA, and JobStreet, adding skills training and guidance to the services offered.

Part of a Nationwide Movement

These events formed part of the broader Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fair program, a long‑standing collaboration between SM Supermalls and DOLE—one of the country’s largest coordinated employment drives.

The partnership continues to deliver strong results:

- May 1 Labor Day Job Fairs: 15 malls hosted simultaneous activities; over 17,000 applicants joined, with more than 1,000 hired immediately.

- January–May 2026 summary: 66 job fairs nationwide; 57,000+ jobseekers served, and over 6,000 hired on the spot.

By bringing nearly 10,000 career opportunities within easy reach of Northern Metro Manila communities, SM Center Sangandaan and SM City Valenzuela champion inclusive progress—helping Filipinos gain economic independence, provide for their families, and build a stronger future.

FCAS 2026 Convention: Where Collectors, History, and Global Brands Meet

The Filipinas Collectibles and Antique Society (FCAS) proudly presents the FCAS 2026 Convention, happening June 26–28, 2026 at Quantum Skyway, Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City.

Regarded as the country’s premier gathering of its kind, this three‑day event welcomes thousands of hobbyists, families, and enthusiasts from across the Philippines and overseas for a full immersion into the world of collecting.

A Comprehensive Showcase Under One Roof

FCAS 2026 brings together an unmatched variety of categories: coins, banknotes, antiques, historical memorabilia, trading cards, stamps, comics, and more. It stands as one of the most complete collectibles conventions ever held in the country.

World‑Class Expertise & New Partnerships

Global leaders in authentication and grading — PCGS and the CCG family of brands (NGC, PMG, ASG, CGC) — join to offer professional services and expert insights.

In a landmark collaboration, Card Expo Philippines by Card Cartel joins the program, featuring over 30 specialized dealers and catering to the fast‑growing trading‑card community.

More Than a Marketplace

Beyond buying, selling, and trading, attendees can enjoy:

✅ Educational talks and exhibits

✅ Live auctions

✅ Community activities

✅ Direct networking with experts and fellow collectors 

“FCAS 2026 is more than a convention — it is a celebration of heritage, passion, and community,” said an FCAS representative. “By uniting different collecting circles, we aim to inspire new generations to discover, preserve, and value history through collectibles.”

Whether you are a seasoned collector or just curious to explore, there is something here for you.

📌 Event Details

Event: FCAS 2026 Convention

Dates: June 26 – 28, 2026

Venue: Quantum Skyway, Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City

Organizer: Filipinas Collectibles and Antique Society (FCAS)

Follow FCAS social media pages for updates.

FCAS 2026 Convention — Where Collectors Converge.

BanKo and Jollibee Group Foundation Strengthen Support for Filipino Onion Farmers Through Financing Partnership

Smallholder farmers under the Jollibee Group Foundation’s (JGF) Farmer Entrepreneurship Program now enjoy better access to credit and stable markets through expanded collaboration with BPI Direct BanKo, Inc., A Savings Bank (BanKo)—the microfinance arm of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI). This partnership delivers accessible, sustainable financing tailored to the needs of onion growers, helping raise productivity, increase income, and secure long‑term growth for local farming communities. 

Targeted Financing for Onion Farmers

BanKo’s Farmer Financing Program sets clear, practical eligibility criteria: applicants must be Filipino farmers aged 23 to 67 at loan maturity, own a mobile phone, and have no negative credit history. They must also belong to a cooperative or association that has supplied the Jollibee Group for at least two consecutive years.

Funds may be used to purchase quality seeds, fertilizers, tools, and other inputs, as well as cover land preparation, labor, and harvesting costs. By combining timely capital with guaranteed market access—including supply contracts with the Jollibee Group—the program helps farmers meet strict quality standards, expand production, and improve harvest yields.

“Through this initiative with Jollibee Group Foundation, we continue to strengthen our commitment to supporting Filipino farmers by providing accessible and sustainable financing solutions tailored to their needs,” said Rod Mabiasen, Jr., President of BanKo.

Proven Impact Across Key Regions

Since launch, the partnership has reached over 200 farmers, with total loan releases amounting to Php 24.8 million. Beneficiaries are based in major onion‑producing areas:

- San Jose, Nueva Ecija

- Tagudin, Ilocos Sur

- Candon, Ilocos Sur

Designed around the onion crop cycle, the program offers competitive interest rates, simplified requirements, and repayment schedules aligned with harvest and sales. Fast processing ensures funds arrive right when planting begins—easing cash flow and reducing reliance on informal lenders who charge high rates. 

“Empowering farmers with timely capital boosts productivity and livelihoods, while building a more resilient agricultural sector and stronger food security. At BanKo, we remain a trusted partner because when farmers thrive, whole communities prosper. Dahil sa BanKo, may ngiti ang bukas mo,” Mabiasen added.

Closing the Credit Gap for Smallholders

Many Filipino farmers remain unbanked or underserved, limiting their ability to invest in better inputs and modern methods. This partnership directly addresses that gap—offering affordable, formal credit that helps break cycles of low output and financial instability.

“At Jollibee Group Foundation, we are committed to helping smallholder farmers become more productive and financially sustainable by connecting them to institutional markets and essential support services. Working with BanKo strengthens this mission by helping farmers gain access to affordable financing that enables them to invest in their farms and improve their livelihoods. Together, we hope to create more opportunities for Filipino smallholder farmers and contribute to a stronger and more inclusive agricultural value chain,” said Gisela Tiongson, President of Jollibee Group Foundation.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Reach and Crops

Moving forward, BanKo and JGF plan to scale the initiative—onboarding more farmers in new provinces and extending credit programs to other high‑value crops, including bell peppers. This shared commitment underscores their role in uplifting Filipino farmers, strengthening local food security, and building a more sustainable, resilient agricultural sector nationwide.

Food, Fun, and Finds: Celebrate Father’s Day at SM Bulacan Malls

Father’s Day is the perfect moment to thank the dad who has been there through every milestone—big or small. Whether he loves great food, exciting activities, or hunting for good finds, SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan offer plenty of ways to make his day truly special.

Here are three wonderful ways to celebrate together:

Take Dad on a Food Adventure

Nothing brings families closer than a satisfying meal. Treat him to his go‑to comfort dishes or introduce him to new flavors from a wide variety of restaurants across SM Bulacan malls. Enjoy hearty Filipino favorites at Manam, sizzling grilled specialties at Ribshack, or global picks at Nanyang and Yabu. Cap the feast with coffee, dessert, or cool refreshments at Better Coffee for a complete dining experience he’ll love.

Bond Over Fun and Entertainment

Shared moments turn into lasting memories. Let Dad show his competitive side—challenge each other to games at SM Storyland, Quantum, or Playopedia—or relax together while catching the latest blockbuster at SM Cinema.

Shop for His Favorites 

 

Find the perfect gift that matches his style and interests. Explore tools and supplies at Ace Hardware, gadgets at SM Cyberzone, and sportswear or accessories at Toby’s Sports. Plus, look out for exclusive deals and special offers while you shop.

Make It a Day to Remember

This Father’s Day, honor the fathers and father figures who guide, support, and provide. Whether sharing a delicious meal, enjoying entertainment, or picking out a thoughtful present, SM Bulacan malls set the stage for unforgettable “Gala to the Max” moments.

Celebrate the man of the hour—where food, fun, and family come together right here at SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.

eTap Inc.: 11 Years of ‘Phygital’ Innovation Driving Financial Inclusion Across the Philippines

Eleven years ago, geographic distance and cumbersome paperwork kept modern financial services out of reach for millions of Filipinos—especially those in rural and underserved communities. Today, Electronic Transfer & Advance Processing Inc. (eTap Inc.) stands as a vital pillar of the country’s financial infrastructure, marking over a decade of bridging the gap between cash‑based transactions and the fast‑growing digital economy.

Founded on June 25, 2015, by Chairman Percy Hernandez and Chief Executive Officer Marlon Portugal, eTap began as a proudly homegrown fintech startup with only two employees. It has grown into a nationwide network of more than 1,000 team members and over 70 offices, establishing itself as a leading authority in self‑service technology solutions.

Powering the ‘Phygital’ Shift

At the heart of eTap’s mission lies the “phygital” economy: a seamless blend of physical cash handling and digital finance. This model creates an essential entry point for the unbanked and underbanked, letting them convert cash into digital form and participate fully in modern financial systems.

The company’s extensive ecosystem includes more than 7,000 self‑service cash and transaction machines strategically placed nationwide. Located in easily accessible spots—supermarkets, pharmacies, convenience stores, and neighborhood bakeries—these units serve as financial lifelines for provinces with limited or no traditional bank branches. To date, eTap’s technology has served over 16 million unique customers, offering simple, secure ways to settle bills, top‑up e‑wallets, and access everyday services.

An Integrated Ecosystem for Business Growth

For corporate partners, utility providers, and financial institutions, eTap acts as a powerful extension of their reach. By integrating with its self‑service network, businesses expand their physical presence without the high costs of building and running standalone branches. Currently, over 800 partner billers rely on the platform to streamline collections and improve customer experience.

This comprehensive capability is supported by a structured ecosystem anchored by key subsidiaries. eTap Solutions Inc.—its sister company—operates and manages payment and cash‑handling machines, bringing financial participation directly to communities that need it most.  

Ironclad Security and Compliance

As a registered Operator of Payment Systems (OPS), eTap places security, reliability, and data privacy at the core of its operations. It holds three internationally recognized ISO certifications: 

- ✅ ISO 27001:2022 – Information Security Management System

- ✅ ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management System

- ✅ ISO 27701:2019 – Privacy Information Management System

These standards confirm that eTap maintains rigorous defenses against threats, consistent operational excellence, and unwavering protection of user information.

Looking Forward: Innovation with Purpose

As it celebrates its 11th year, eTap has unveiled a refreshed, modern brand identity—reflecting its evolution into a forward‑thinking financial leader. Beyond payments, it now delivers a complete ecosystem: customizable hardware, purpose‑built software, and end‑to‑end cash management and support services.

Growth also goes hand‑in‑hand with commitment to people. The company funds educational scholarships for employees’ children and runs annual outreach programs for marginalized groups. Even as the financial landscape becomes increasingly digital, eTap Inc. stays true to its promise: ensuring progress includes everyone. It remains the trusted self‑service bridge connecting every Filipino—wherever they may be—to greater economic opportunity.

For more details, visit https://www.etap.com.ph/.

Venice Grand Canal Mall Takes Dads on a Global Flavor Adventure This Father’s Day

Scenic waterways and a rich variety of dining options set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. 

Make Dad’s special day even more meaningful with a dining journey where every table opens a door to new flavors and cultures. Framed by Venice Grand Canal Mall’s picturesque canals and European‑style architecture, this destination features a carefully curated collection of restaurants—each serving distinct tastes from around the world—perfect for dads who deserve nothing less than an exceptional feast.

From bold Japanese comfort food and refined Italian plates to hands‑on interactive dining, here’s where to treat Dad to a meal full of discovery: 

Botejyu 

Ideal for the dad who loves hearty Japanese comfort food, Botejyu brings the authentic flavors of Osaka to the table. Standouts include the Premium Mix Okosoba: a satisfying medley of beef, pork belly, shrimp, octopus, and egg—robust, flavorful, and made for sharing.  

Cibo 

For the dad with a taste for modern Italian cuisine, Cibo offers a refined yet relaxed dining atmosphere. Try the Shrimp Rigatoni all’Alfonso, combining stewed tomatoes, cream, chives, and a hint of chili flakes. Finish with the Mascarpone Tres Leches Cake—light yet indulgent—for a balance of savory depth and sweet satisfaction.

Italianni’s 

When Dad craves generous, family‑style meals, Italianni’s serves beloved Italian‑American favorites that feel warm and celebratory. The Truffle Chicken and Mushroom dish delivers rich, comforting flavors alongside hearty portions—ideal for tables that love passing plates and sharing good food.

Tong Yang 

For dads who enjoy variety and fun, Tong Yang turns dining into an activity. With its shabu‑shabu and tabletop grill concept, families cook, taste, and explore together—adding lively energy and a little adventure to every bite.

Modern Shanghai 

Classic Chinese flavors meet thoughtful presentation at Modern Shanghai, great for dads who appreciate tradition with a contemporary touch. Must‑tries include the Signature Xiao Long Bao—bursting with savory pork broth—and tender Hakaw Shrimp Dumplings—delicate, plump, and perfectly steamed—dishes that naturally bring everyone closer.

Conti’s 

For the dad who finds comfort in familiar favorites, Conti’s serves home‑style dishes made special. The Baked Salmon, paired with Symphony Salad and Paella Rice, strikes the perfect balance between festive and comforting—just like a meal prepared with love at home.

From one cuisine to the next, every restaurant adds its own character to the celebration. What ties them all together is what matters most: quality time with Dad, made richer by great food and lasting memories.

For more details and updates, visit megaworld‑lifestylemalls.com or call (02) 8462‑8888.

Over 21,000 Filipinos Access Job Hiring and Upskilling Opportunities Through SM Supermalls and DOLE's Nationwide Araw ng Kalayaan Job Fairs

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,” said 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," 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 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

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 SM Supermalls Job Fair Page or follow SM Supermalls on social media.