Village Connect
As industries rapidly evolve and new technologies reshape the world of work, the need for a skilled and adaptable workforce has never been more urgent. Recognizing this challenge, the SM Group is scaling up its J.O.B.S. (Job Opportunities Building Skills) program to help Filipinos bridge the skills gap and secure long-term, meaningful careers.
From Job Matching to Skills Building
What began as a nationwide job fair initiative is now transforming into a holistic employment platform. In partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), SM is integrating skills training into its job fairs, allowing applicants not only to find employment but also to access TESDA-accredited programs that prepare them for the demands of a modern economy.
“Just as we at SM rely on the competence of our people to grow, we also want to contribute to the country’s goal of helping Filipinos secure meaningful employment,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and CEO of SM Investments Corporation. “Through our partnership with TESDA, we aim to expand opportunities that combine access to jobs and skills development, enabling inclusive growth in the communities that we serve.”
A Pathway to Sustainable Livelihoods
For TESDA, the collaboration ensures that more Filipinos can benefit from training that leads directly to employment opportunities. Deputy Director Nelly Dillera highlighted the program’s inclusive design: “By combining employment access with targeted training opportunities, we are creating a more responsive and inclusive pathway to sustainable livelihoods—right where communities live, shop, and gather.”
Expanding Reach Across Sectors
SM is also extending the J.O.B.S. program to meet the demands of key industries. Specialized initiatives are being rolled out in supply chain, logistics, and retail, while partnerships with the Department of Health (DOH) support recruitment in the healthcare sector. Beyond its own network, SM works with the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) and other organizations to widen its reach and tap into a diverse talent pool.
Impact Since Inception
Since its launch in 2024, the J.O.B.S. program has already hosted over 300 job fairs nationwide, reaching more than 180,000 job seekers. Of these, 24,000 were hired on the spot, a clear demonstration of its role in accelerating employment and reducing barriers for Filipino workers.
Building a Future-Ready Workforce
As the program grows, SM’s vision is clear: to transform job fairs into platforms where Filipinos can access both employment and training opportunities. By aligning with national workforce priorities and forging partnerships across industries, SM is not only creating jobs but also building a future-ready workforce that can thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy.
Loading…