SM reinforces public safety through nationwide Fire Prevention Month programs

Participants from SM Supermalls, the Bureau of Fire Protection, partner agencies, and community volunteers come together for the Fire Prevention Month activities, reinforcing a shared commitment to safety, preparedness, and building disaster-resilient communities.

MANILA, Philippines, April 06, 2026 - Reaffirming its commitment to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month, empowering Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety across its network of most-loved malls.

Mounted through SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill engaged almost 30,000 participants composed of SM employees, tenant employees, security and janitorial personnel, students, mall goers, and residents of barangays near SM malls which was a 30% increase in participants versus the previous year.

With the theme ‘Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!’, the drill strengthened coordination in emergency response, especially helping communities practice life-saving evacuation procedures. In addition, the Fire Square Road Show brought interactive fire safety education to the public across 16 participating SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through demonstrations, equipment showcases, and hands-on safety activities designed for families, students, and community members. 

A large-scale Fire Prevention Month illumination at the SM Mall of Asia Globe featured a dramatic “Venus Symbol Formation” created by 263 fire trucks and emergency vehicles, with 2,827 participants, honoring firefighters and raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

The search for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 was formally launched with officers of SM, BFP and DILG headed by Usec. Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). TOFF is on its 3rd solid year of recognizing Filipino firefighters for their exemplary service in fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building initiatives. This highlights the partnership between SM Prime and BFP for a safer, more resilient Philippines.

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. 

 

On March 1, the SM Mall of Asia Globe lights up in purple signaling the joint celebration of Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month 2026. The purple illumination and formation of the Venus symbol signifies dignity, justice, and empowerment for all women and girls, and marking the start of SM Cares’ month-long advocacy in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Women on Fire: Women firefighters take part in the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia, showcasing courage, skill, and leadership while advancing the role of women in safety, service, and community protection.

A woman BFP firefighter teaches Hands-Only CPR to young students during the Fire Square Road Show at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on March 3, underscoring the importance of education and community awareness in building a safer, more prepared future.

The official launch of the TOFF 2026 on March 3 at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall with DILG Usec. Rolando C. Puno as GOHAS together with SM officers, TOFF 2025 judges and BFP Officer-in-Charge Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu

Instant Jobs, Real Impact: Stories from SM Group Job Fair at SM North EDSA

   

“Hindi ko po akalain na matatanggap ako ngayon,” shared Felo Garcia, hired on the spot as a Sales Associate. “Salamat po SM dahil makaka-provide na ako sa mga pangangailangan ng anak ko at pamilya ko.”

Another hired-on-the-spot applicant, Joel Azores, emphasized the credibility and impact of the event, saying, “One hundred percent ka po matatanggap sa Mega Job Fair dahil puro legit na company dito.”

With 25 participating employers, more than a thousand job seekers, and 236 or 22% hired on the spot, the annual SM Group Job Fair at SM City North EDSA once again proved to be a powerful platform for connecting Filipinos to real and immediate employment opportunities.

Led by SM Retail, the job fair gathered companies from across the SM Group’s diverse businesses—spanning malls and real estate, retail, food and beverage, logistics, education, and banking. More than just high foot traffic, the event delivered high intent, high engagement, and strong hiring outcomes.

From application to employment—on the same day

One of the strongest highlights of the job fair was the number of applicants hired on the spot (HOTS), showcasing the efficiency and accessibility of SM’s hiring ecosystem.

For many job seekers, the experience was nothing short of life-changing. Through on-site interviews and real-time assessments, applicants were able to move quickly from application to employment—removing the long waiting periods often associated with traditional recruitment.

A job fair that works for real people

For many first-time job seekers and breadwinners, the SM Job Fair offered not just jobs—but relief, speed, and hope. “Makakatulong yung ganitong pa-event sa mga pamilya,” shared Joshua Bulauitan, hired on the spot as a Sales Clerk. “Kung wala kang trabaho at nagigipit ka na, pumunta ka lang dito—may instant trabaho ka.”

This immediate hiring momentum reflects SM Retail’s consistently strong hiring demand and absorption rates, ensuring that SM Job Fairs translate into real jobs—not just applications.

Employers meet job-ready talent, faster

Employers likewise cited the effectiveness of SM Job Fairs in reaching the right candidates efficiently.

 “Sumali po kami dito because we are looking to hire more employees,” said Lyka Sababan of SM Appliance Center. “Alam po namin na maraming jobseekers ang pumupunta dito, and effective po talaga ang job fairs para sa mga companies na naghahanap ng new employees.”

Meanwhile, financial services firms highlighted the long-term success of hires from SM Job Fairs.

“The candidates we hired from our last job fair here at SM North EDSA have good profiles,” shared Tia Macatlang of BDO Life, “and we see that they are now successful financial advisers.”

Strengthening employment through public-private collaboration

The job fair was held in partnership with key government agencies, including the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Public Employment Service Office (PESO)—underscoring the value of public-private collaboration in employment generation.

 

“Malaki ang tulong ng SM Supermalls sa PESO at DOLE,” said Jon Tito, Group Leader of QC PESO. “Kinakalat nila ang opportunities para sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho.”

SM Government Service Express: making hiring easier, faster

To further simplify the employment journey, the job fair featured SM Government Service Express, a one-stop hub where applicants could process pre-employment requirements in one location.

Participating agencies included the Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG Fund, PhilHealth, and the Philippine National Police for police clearance.

“Pinapadali ng ganitong job fairs ang mga oportunidad para sa jobseekers,” explained Adolf Hernandez of PhilHealth QC. “May hired on the spot ka na, at nandito na rin ang mga government agencies para sa requirements.”

SSS echoed this, emphasizing accessibility: “Importante na sumasali ang mga government agencies sa job fairs,” said Ava Michelle Estrella of SSS, “kasi on the spot, natutulungan namin ang applicants sa pagkuha ng requirements.”

Bringing opportunities closer, nationwide

Following the strong turnout at SM City North EDSA, SM Supermalls continues to bring job opportunities closer to Filipinos with a series of job fairs nationwide this March:

• March 4 – SM Center Antipolo

• March 6 – SM Mall of Asia

• March 11 – SM City Davao

• March 13 – SM City Trece Martires

• March 20 – SM City North EDSA

• March 25 – SM City Urdaneta Central

• March 26 - SM City Tuguegarao

• March 27 – SM City Trece Martires

• March 27 – SM City Cauayan

• 

Jobseekers are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resume, valid IDs, and other basic pre-employment requirements, and to arrive early to maximize interview opportunities. Admission to SM Job Fairs is free and open to the public, unless otherwise specified.

For updates on schedules and participating employers, applicants may visit SM Supermalls’ official social media pages or inquire at the customer service desk of participating malls.

Turning malls into platforms for opportunity

The continued success of the SM Job Fair highlights how the country’s most loved malls are evolving beyond retail becoming platforms that deliver real-world solutions for Filipinos.

By bringing together employers, job seekers, and government agencies in one accessible space, SM Supermalls continues to max out experiences—turning malls into hubs where careers begin, requirements are completed, and futures move forward.

At SM Supermalls, opportunities don’t just exist—they feel possible. 

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 across its malls nationwide. As the country’s most preferred and loved retail destination, SM designs job fair experiences that are personal, inclusive, and responsive to different job seeker tribes

from fresh graduates and career shifters to experienced professionals matching them with employers aligned to their goals and aspirations. More than a venue, SM serves as a platform for empowerment, connecting talent to opportunity, strengthening workforce development, and supporting inclusive economic growth through strong partnerships. 

Asia’s biggest dog show is back at the Smart Araneta Coliseum

Canines are set to take center stage at the biggest dog show in Asia — the Philippine Circuit 2026 — from January 20 to 25, 2026, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Now in its 12th year, the Philippine Circuit is organized by the Philippine Canine Club, Inc. (PCCI), a non-stock and non-profit organization dedicated to promoting love and compassion for purebred dogs. The event demonstrates PCCI’s commitment to propelling the canine experience onto the global stage.

This year’s spectacle will be headlined by the 2026 Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) World Grooming Competition, which will highlight the skill and artistry in dog grooming. Dogs and dog handlers from across the globe will showcase creative styling, breed-specific cuts, and technical ability.

Alongside this contest, there will be 12 All-Breed Championship Dog Shows, mediated by renowned international judges to ensure fair and healthy competition. With 7,440 entries representing 91 breeds, the Philippine Circuit 2026 continues to showcase the diversity of breeds and their unique qualities.

Dog lovers will witness lovable Pembroke Welsh Corgis, charming French Bulldogs, fluffy Pomeranians, friendly Golden Retrievers, and more, skipping around the Smart Araneta Coliseum with glee, together with their proud handlers.

Last year, an American Cocker Spaniel earned the title of Grand Champion, impressing judges with its sophistication. A Borzoi claimed Best in Show, while a Chow Chow was awarded Best in Show for Philippine-born dogs, highlighting the expertise and dedication of local breeders.

“The Philippine Circuit is more than a competition,” said Irene L. Jose, COO of Uniprom Inc. “It’s the celebration of camaraderie between humans and dogs. This event is a gathering of the dog-loving community and their love for purebred dogs.”

The event also aims to educate people about dog grooming and its critical role in canine health and hygiene. Dog grooming is essential in controlling parasites, fleas, and other infections. It also helps in the early detection of lumps, bumps, and other health problems. More than its aesthetic function, dog grooming is imperative for canines’ overall well-being.

PCCI Groomers Certification conducts seminars to professionalize dog groomers in the Philippines, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality services.

PCCI is also a member of the FCI, an international organization of registering bodies based in Brussels, Belgium. PCCI is the only FCI-accredited registering body in the Philippines for purebred dogs.

To know more about this event and other activities of PCCI, please visit https://www.pcci.org.ph/. You may also follow them on Facebook and Instagram. To learn more about the Smart Araneta Coliseum, please visit www.smartaranetacoliseum.com.

SM Supermalls and DICT launched Digital Corners in SM Job Fairs Empowering job seekers and SHS learners through digital upskilling

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.

Quezon City, Philippines — November 6, 2025. 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.

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.

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

“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.” 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.