SM Supermalls and DICT launched Digital Corners in SM Job Fairs

Empowering job seekers and SHS learners through digital upskilling

SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), has officially introduced Digital Corners to SM Job Fairs—an initiative launched during the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS 2025 held at the Skydome, SM City North EDSA.

Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda and SM Supermalls VP for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio formalize their partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish digital corners in SM Job Fairs. The two leaders also reaffirm their shared commitment through the Pledge of Commitment Wall, championing real-world opportunities that empower young Filipinos to develop future-ready digital skills.

An innovative learning solution, the Digital Corner is designed as a free, open-access upskilling hub within SM job fair venues. It offers job seekers training opportunities on digital literacy, Python programming, Google Career Certificate courses, basic networking, coding, cybersecurity, and online entrepreneurship. 

“This is the next step in our collective efforts to not only match jobs with job seekers but to equip them with future-ready digital skills,” said Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations, SM Supermalls. “By housing this initiative in SM malls, we’re turning job fairs into job-and-learning fairs—places where opportunity and capability meet.”

SM Supermalls champions inclusivity and opportunity, helping create pathways for every Filipino student to succeed.

The Digital Corner is expected to benefit thousands of Filipinos annually, especially graduating SHS students preparing to enter the workforce or pursue further training in tech-enabled fields.

DIGITAL EMPOWERMENT STARTS WITH SHS STUDENTS

Nearly 1,000 SHS students, accompanied by parents and teachers from over 40 schools, participated in the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS 2025 launch. The event marks the rollout of the Enhanced Work Immersion Pilot (EWIP), a collaboration between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), with SM Supermalls serving as a key venue and industry partner, alongside SM Retail.

The Skydome at SM City North EDSA buzzed with energy as a thousand of Senior High School Students took their first step from classroom to career during the launch of the J.O.B.S. Immersion for SHS students, a program bridging education and employment opportunities for young learners.

The EWIP is transforming the SHS experience by increasing work immersion hours from the current 80–320 hours to 420–640 hours. This expanded, hands-on training is backed by industry partners who co-develop training plans to align classroom learning with real-world skills in sectors like retail, hospitality, and technology.

Interactive booths from DICT and private partners let students explore future career paths and digital upskilling opportunities.

At the launch, companies including SM Retail and Newport World Resorts provided students with insights into job expectations and workplace values. Throughout the day, students also attended career readiness sessions with experts and explored opportunities presented by industry and government partners in a special Digital Economy Showcase.

Industry leaders from SM Retail VP for Human Resources Ms. Maria Teresa P. Portillo, Newport World Resorts Marketing and Administrative Head Mr. Mark Ross Rubio and Department of Science and Technology- Information and Communications Office (DOST-ICT Office) Deputy Executive Director Ms. Beatrice Quimson share career insights and mentorship during the SHS Immersion Talks.

SM MALLS: THE FUTURE OF OPPORTUNITY CENTERS

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—remains a steadfast partner in nation-building by opening doors to employment through accessible job fairs in its 88 malls nationwide. For four decades, SM has evolved into more than just a retail destination—it has become a platform for empowering Filipinos with livelihood opportunities, bridging job seekers with employers, and uplifting lives through strategic partnerships that foster workforce development and inclusive economic growth. (SM Supermalls)

Early Holiday Cheer Awaits at SM City Mindpro’s Pre-Holiday Specials

The holiday excitement starts now as SM City Mindpro kicks off the season with its much-awaited Pre-Holiday Specials, a three-day celebration happening from November 14 to 16. Shoppers can expect a vibrant mix of exclusive deals, exciting promos, and festive surprises designed to spark joy and get everyone into the holiday groove.

From trendy fashion finds to gift-worthy picks, SM City Mindpro is bringing a curated holiday experience perfect for the youngsters and families alike. Whether you’re hunting for early Christmas gifts, planning a weekend entertainment, refreshing your holiday wardrobe, or simply vibing with the season’s energy – this is the perfect time to visit the mall.

With only three days to enjoy these limited-time offers, shoppers are encouraged to explore the mall’s holiday highlights, snap Instagram-worthy moments, and make meaningful memories with friends and loved ones.

Don’t miss out! Drop by SM City Mindpro from November 14 to 16 and make your holidays extra joyful, extra fun, and extra festive!

SM Prime and Iloilo City Partner to Revitalize Public Markets as Cultural Landmarks

From left: SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans Sy Jr. and Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu speak with a vendor as guests look on.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), in partnership with the Iloilo City Government, marked the opening of the newly redeveloped Iloilo Central Market and Terminal Market, two of the city’s largest and most historic public spaces.

The redevelopment is a landmark public-private partnership (PPP) signed in August 2022. With a total gross floor area of over 62,000 square meters, it broke ground in 2023, with nearly P3 billion invested to transform Iloilo City’s iconic markets into modern, efficient and inclusive centers of local enterprise.

The project was completed at no cost to the city and is managed by the Local Economic Enterprise Office to preserve the public character of the markets. This collaboration reflects SM’s Bold New Era — a commitment to creating spaces that evolve with communities, always All For You.

“This day marks an important milestone in the history of Iloilo City, a new beginning for our vendors and shoppers. Everything is organized, clean, bright and well-ventilated,” said Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu during the opening ceremony. 

Iloilo, named the Philippines’ first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2023, is renowned for its culinary heritage and entrepreneurial spirit. The modernization of its public markets bridges tradition and innovation, ensuring that Ilonggo food culture and small enterprises can continue to grow and bring people together.

SM Iloilo Terminal Market (SITM) includes a lifestyle center that has a gross floor area of almost 20,000 square meters, which houses 58 long-term leasable spaces. Meanwhile, SITM’s market section has expanded to house 1,160 vendors from its previous 911 vendors.

“Before, the old market’s condition was really difficult for us. When it rained, everything got wet, and our regular customers found it inconvenient,” said Jedda Navales, a native coffee vendor at the SITM. “Now, with the new Iloilo Terminal Market, we’re finally leveling up.”

On the other hand, SM Iloilo Central Market (SICM)’s community space expands to more than 17,000 square meters of gross floor area that blends heritage and contemporary design highlighted by 61 long-term leasable spaces and communal dining areas, where beloved Ilonggo dishes such as batchoy, pancit molo and fresh seafood take center stage. SICM’s central market section now caters to 850 vendors from the previous 529.

“We’re confident more people will buy our products now that the market is clean, organized, and has parking spaces. Even when we were at temporary stalls, our loyal customers kept finding us. We’re proud to help promote Iloilo through our native roast chicken,” said Evangeline Janeo, owner of Rawit’s Litson at the SICM.

SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim shared the company vision for the project: “Public markets play an essential role in the community and in the lives of local entrepreneurs. Through this partnership, we are helping strengthen both, and we are grateful to the Iloilo City Government for their trust and partnership.”

As the SM Iloilo Central and Terminal Markets reopen, it begins a new chapter in Ilonggo life – one that honors the past while embracing what’s next.

For generations, these markets have been where people trade, share meals, and connect. Their renewal keeps that spirit alive – stronger, cleaner, and ready for the future. It’s part of how SM continues to grow with the communities it serves, always with them in mind. (SM PRIME)

SM Foundation and SM Supermalls Extend Aid to Cebu Through Operation Tulong Express

Over 8,000 affected families in Cebu were given Kalinga Packs through SM Foundation's Operation Tulong Express (OPTE)

Through Operation Tulong Express (OPTE), SM Foundation, Inc. and SM Supermalls continue to bring comfort and care to communities in need. As part of this nationwide relief effort, Kalinga Packs filled with essential goods were distributed to over 8,000 affected families in Mandaue City, Consolacion, and Cebu City, offering hope and support as they recover and rebuild together.

In solidarity with this cause, SM City Mindpro encourages Zamboangueños to extend their compassion by donating to help families in Cebu. A dedicated Operation Tulong Express Donation Box is located at the Ground Level near Campaner Entrance of SM City Mindpro.

Every contribution, big or small, can help empower communities to rise again. Join us in supporting this relief drive and be part of SM’s continuing mission to uplift lives across the nation.

Visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/sm-malls-unite-for-cebu to view the locations of OPTE Donation Box in SM Supermalls nationwide.