A nationwide hiring movement in celebration of Independence Day.   In celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day, SM Supermalls and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) are teaming up once again for the Kalayaan Job Fairs—happening this June 12 in 28 SM malls nationwide. This isn’t just any job fair. It’s a full-blown opportunity hub, bringing together hundreds of local and overseas employers, thousands of job openings, on-the-spot hiring, and even government services like the Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)—all in one convenient, accessible, and air-conditioned SM mall. Whether you’re a fresh grad, seasoned pro, or a returning Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), this is your chance to glow up and gear up for your next career move. Hired on the spot: Real stories, real impact “I’ve been to other job fairs, pero dito lang ako na-hire on the spot. Ang daming choices, maayos ang lugar, at may mga government booths pa! Super sulit.”— Jolina, Hired as Sales Associate at an SM Job Fair. A newly hired applicant celebrates her on-the-spot achievement at the SM City Marikina Job Fair. “Mabilis po ang process. At lahat ng requirements, nandito na—tulad ng NBI, Pag-IBIG, at PhilHealth. Malaking bagay po ‘yun, sa hirap pong maghanap ng trabaho ngayon.” — Dondon, Hired as a Room Attendant at an SM Job Fair. Participating SM Malls – June 12 Kalayaan Job Fairs: SM Mall of Asia SM Megamall SM City Fairview SM City Novaliches (June 12 – 13) SM City Marikina SM City Grand Central SM City North EDSA SM City Manila SM City Sta. Mesa SM City East Ortigas SM Center Las Piñas SM City Laoag SM City Rosales SM City Baguio SM City Masinag SM City Tuguegarao SM City Cabanatuan SM City Bataan SM City Telabastagan SM City San Mateo SM City Tanza SM City Puerto Princesa SM City Legazpi SM City Iloilo SM City Bacolod SM Seaside City Cebu SM City Davao SM City General Santos Other June Job Fair Dates You Shouldn’t Miss: June 11 – SM Center Imus June 11 – SM City Molino June 11 – SM City Tuguegarao June 13 – SM City Marilao June 13 – SM City Trece Martires June 16 – 17 – SM City North EDSA June 16 – SM City Tuguegarao June 17 – SM City Calamba June 19 – SM City Daet June 27 – SM City Trece Martires June 27 – SM City Laoag Join the movement. Start something life-changing. At SM, Independence Day isn’t just about waving flags—it’s about unlocking futures. So, update that resume, bring extra copies, and show up as your best professional self. Your next big opportunity is waiting. For full schedules and updates, follow SM Supermalls on Facebook or visit www.smsupermalls.com. About SM Job Fairs SM Supermalls, in collaboration with key government agencies and private sector partners, regularly holds SM Job Fair events nationwide to support employment, empower communities, and contribute to nation-building. These job fairs provide inclusive and accessible platforms that bring together thousands of job opportunities and essential services for Filipino jobseekers.        

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Tuesday welcomed the Senate’s adoption of a resolution creating a Cabinet Cluster that will bring together top officials of education and other concerned agencies to tackle the country’s learning crisis. The Senate adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 21 which calls for the creation of a President’s Cabinet Cluster for Education, a key recommendation of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) co-chaired by Cayetano. The cluster will also oversee the implementation of education reforms and align education with real-world job demands. It will include the heads of the sub-education agencies, namely the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), as co-Chairpersons. They will work in consultation with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE); the Department of Budget and Management (DBM); the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev, formerly known as the National Economic and Development Authority or NEDA); the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). “This will pave the way for a common vision for our education sector. When we share the same vision, we can move in the same direction, even if our agencies have different roles,” Cayetano said. The proposed cluster will initiate and oversee efforts across education agencies while awaiting the legislative creation of a commission that will carry on the work started by EDCOM II. Cayetano, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education, emphasized that including DOLE and DBM in the cluster is essential to ensure that education is directly linked to workforce needs and that funding for reforms is sustained. “Education shouldn’t stop at graduation but should lead to employment and a better life. That’s why labor and budget agencies must be part of the conversation from the start,” he said. The resolution was filed in 2024 by Cayetano and fellow EDCOM II commissioners Senators Sherwin Gatchalian, Joel Villanueva, and Aquilino Pimentel III. It highlights the long-standing lack of coordination among education agencies due to the trifocalized setup introduced in the 1990s which split responsibilities among DepEd for basic education, CHED for higher education, and TESDA for technical-vocational training. While the system was intended to clarify functions, critics say it has led to overlapping programs, fragmented implementation, and missed opportunities for reform. With the Senate’s approval and the House of Representatives having adopted the same resolution in August 2024, the legislative process for the proposal is now complete. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had earlier expressed support for the cluster in principle.

By order of the President of the Republic of the Philippines, Police General Nicolas D. Torre III formally assumed command as the 31st Chief of the Philippine National Police during the Change of Command Ceremony held at Camp Crame. A proud son of Jolo, Sulu, who was raised in South Cotabato, and a member of PNPA “Tagapaglunsad” Class of 1993, he makes history as the first PNPA alumnus to lead the 231,000-strong Philippine National Police. With over three decades of service, PGen Torre held key positions including Provincial Director of Samar and Batangas, Deputy Director of the PNPA, District Director of the Quezon City Police District, and Director of the Communications and Electronics Service. He is widely recognized for pioneering modern policing strategies, including drone-assisted patrols, the full integration of body-worn cameras in law enforcement operations, and the implementation of the nationally adopted 3-minute response time policy. Before his appointment as the 31st Chief of the PNP, he served as the Regional Director of Police Regional Office 11 and Director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, further demonstrating his commitment to upholding justice and public safety. In his assumption message, PGen Torre outlined a leadership framework founded on three key pillars: swift and responsive public service, unity and morale within the ranks, and accountability through modernization. He emphasized that every Filipino deserves a rapid and efficient police response, vowing to institutionalize a three-minute emergency response time in major urban areas—an initiative he had successfully implemented in Quezon City. “This is not just a benchmark—it is a lifeline,” he said, committing to strengthen police visibility and presence in streets, markets, and communities to provide safety and peace of mind. Equally central to his leadership is the belief that the strength of the organization lies in the unity and well-being of its personnel. PGen Torre called for discipline, mutual respect, and leadership by example, and assured police personnel of access to the best training, guidance, and support. “Those who are asked to give all also deserve nothing less in return,” he said. His third focus is on accountability and modernization, pledging to align the PNP’s systems with the national reform agenda. He committed to upgrading investigative tools and adopting innovations that not only enhance efficiency but also safeguard civil rights. Under his leadership, appointments and assignments will be strictly based on merit and performance. “Real talk lamang. No need for endorsements under my leadership,” he declared, promising that only the most competent will be entrusted with leadership responsibilities. PGen Torre also called on the entire police force to take pride in doing extraordinary things for the people, emphasizing that genuine service will always be recognized and rewarded. He reiterated his commitment to impartial law enforcement, stating that all laws will be applied equally, regardless of status or nationality. With deep appreciation for his predecessor and the legacy laid down before him, PGen Torre stood in unity with the men and women of the PNP, declaring readiness to face the challenges ahead. As he leads the PNP into a new chapter, his call is clear: to respond swiftly to the needs of the people, to strengthen the bond within the ranks, and to uphold a standard of integrity and justice that every Filipino deserves. The Philippine National Police, under the leadership of PGen Nicolas D. Torre III, enters a new era—one driven by merit, service, and a deep commitment to the vision of a Bagong Pilipinas.            

Manila, PHILIPPINES – Cebu Pacific (CEB), Philippines’ leading carrier, and flyadeal, Saudia Arabia’s fast growing low-cost airline, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore joint strategic commercial initiatives. The historic agreement covers a wide range of opportunities in commercial cooperation and support in maintenance and engineering. The first phase of the MoU will see flyadeal utilize two of Cebu Pacific’s Airbus A320 aircraft on a wet-lease arrangement for the upcoming summer peak flying season in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Reciprocally, Cebu Pacific is examining wet-leasing flyadeal A320s during the busy winter period in Southeast Asia at the end of the year. The agreement was signed at a joint press conference held in Manila today at which flyadeal chief executive officer (CEO) Steven Greenway and Cebu Pacific CEO Mike Szucs outlined plans for a phased cooperation beginning with the wet-lease arrangement. Talks between the two airlines began earlier this year following a visit by Greenway and a flyadeal delegation to Manila to learn more about Cebu Pacific’s A330-900neo operations. flyadeal, the Middle East’s fastest growing airline, recently announced plans to venture into the long-haul market with an order for 10 A330 widebodies to be deployed between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, and across southeast Asia from 2027. Greenway said: “Today’s agreement is momentous as it marks flyadeal’s first ever strategic airline partnership. It was clear and obvious that flyadeal could learn a lot from Cebu Pacific’s experience of low-cost long-haul operations given we will be inducting the same A330-900neos into our fleet in just two years’ time. There are great benefits in sharing technical knowledge, training, and best practice in preparation for our A330 induction and, of course, we are both A320 operators. “This was the starting point for wide-ranging commercial discussions covering a broad range of areas including more immediate needs of wet-leasing aircraft for flyadeal’s busy upcoming summer season. A win, win situation all round to bring in Cebu Pacific aircraft during our peak period and vice versa for Mike and his team to explore taking our aircraft for their winter peak later this year.” Szucs explained: “With Cebu Pacific’s growing fleet, we seek to maximize the potential of our increased capacity through all months of the year. The utilization of our capacity by other carriers during our lean season is a way of achieving that.” “This partnership with flyadeal highlights Cebu Pacific’s growing capability to support international carriers through wet leasing and broader operational collaboration. It diversifies our revenue streams and further expands Cebu Pacific’s presence beyond the Asia Pacific region.” Both CEOs said their respective teams will meet frequently to map out the joint commercial plans over the next few months.          

A new nationwide study reveals meaningful improvements in hunger levels among low-income households supported by the “Walang Gutom Program,” a joint initiative of Globe and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The findings highlight how partnerships like this can play a vital role in addressing food insecurity, an issue when left unaddressed, affects not only the public but also the long-term sustainability of businesses that rely on healthy, thriving communities. To better understand the impact on families, Globe commissioned Social Weather Stations (SWS), in coordination with DSWD, to carry out a two-wave study on hunger alleviation. The first wave was conducted from October 7 to 18, 2024, and the second wave from December 1 to 10, 2024. It covered a total of 3,991 household responses—2,011 in wave 1 and 1,980 in wave 2—across 33 provinces nationwide. “This study proves that when the public and private sectors work together with purpose, we can make a real difference in people’s lives,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. “We’re honored to support efforts that not only provide digital access, but also help shape better programs through data and insight.” Just months after implementation, the study shows that the program is making a real impact. Among program beneficiaries, the share of households experiencing hunger dropped by 4.1 percentage points—from 48.7% in October 2024 to 44.6% in December. In contrast, hunger among non-beneficiaries increased by 6.1 points during the same period. The 10.2 percentage point gap between beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries shows the positive effect of the intervention. Significant regional improvements were seen in areas with high vulnerability. In the BARMM-Plus region—which includes the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Lanao del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay—hunger among beneficiaries dropped by 7.3 points, and in the Central-South cluster—Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Cotabato City, Zamboanga del Norte, and Surigao del Norte—the drop was at 5.7 points. A similar trend was observed in severe hunger, where beneficiary households in BARMM-Plus saw a marked decrease of 8.1 percentage points, the highest across all clusters. The improvements were especially felt in households where women or less-educated members were in charge of meal planning—those often hit hardest by hunger. At the same time, the study reminds us that many families still struggle with severe food insecurity, showing how important it is to keep strengthening programs like this. “Hunger is one of the most urgent challenges facing vulnerable Filipino families today,” said Linda Luz B. Guerrero, President at SWS. “This study provides clear, data-backed proof that when support is well-targeted, it works. Programs like ‘Walang Gutom’ help break the cycle of poverty and guide national policy toward real, measurable change.” The “Walang Gutom Program” is more than just about feeding families, it helps keep children focused on learning, and gives parents a better chance to work and provide. By reducing hunger, it builds stronger, more resilient communities. The program is set to expand to 300,000 more families in 2025;150,000 more in 2026, and reach one million households by 2027—affirming its long-term commitment to food security nationwide. Globe is also contributing to the goals of the “Walang Gutom Program” through its Hapag Movement, a flagship initiative that addresses involuntary hunger by providing both food assistance and livelihood support to vulnerable families. As of end-2024, the movement had already reached 120,455 families, surpassing its original 2025 target, with the help of ₱53 million in donations from corporate partners and Globe customers. It also enabled over 4,000 individuals to graduate from upskilling programs designed to equip them with sustainable livelihood skills. For Globe, the work doesn’t stop at connectivity. By combining innovation with compassion, the company hopes to bring meaningful innovations and programs that uplift the life of every Filipino.  

MANILA, Philippines—SM Supermalls has partnered with the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) to create work opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and help them succeed in the retail industry. This collaboration reflects SM’s enduring commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across its operations. This newly inked partnership builds on that legacy, ensuring more meaningful, sustainable roles for talents on the spectrum within the SM ecosystem. SM Markets pioneered autism-inclusive hiring back in 2016. A ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was held at Book Nook in SM Podium, marking the beginning of an inspiring new chapter in inclusive employment. Book Nook, a flagship community learning hub under SM Cares, will soon welcome individuals on the spectrum as Book Nook concierges, bringing SM’s inclusive vision to life in a space that champions learning,connection, and belonging. “Book Nook was always meant to be a space where everyone feels they belong,” Ms. Shereen T. Sy shared. “Through this initiative, we bring that vision into sharper focus—creating not just a library, but a living story of inclusion, empowerment, and opportunity.” The Autism Society Philippines is excited about this collaboration,” said Ms. Mona Magno Veluz, Country Manager of ASP Autism Works. “We need more companies carving a space for Filipinos with disabilities in their businesses, allowing them to contribute and grow.” The partnership is part of SM Cares’ broader advocacy for inclusive employment, which aims to create work environments where people with disabilities are welcomed and celebrated for their unique strengths. “At SM, inclusion is more than a policy—it’s our purpose,” said Mr. Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “This partnership with ASP reaffirms our commitment to being a ‘Mall for All’—a place where everyone can succeed and feel they belong.” SM Supermalls continues to redefine inclusive, compassionate public spaces—not just in its malls but in communities throughout the Philippines. Its strategic partnership with the ASP ensures that they are guided in best practices for recruiting, developing, and retaining talents on the autism spectrum.        

  San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI) has reported a significant reduction in malnutrition among children covered by its expanded mother-and-child health program, “Happy si Mommy, Malusog si Baby,” now reaching over 1,000 beneficiaries in 24 barangays nationwide. Data from the program show that 89% of children enrolled have reached normal height and weight, underweight cases have dropped to 2%, and only 9% remain classified as malnourished. The initiative supports mothers and infants during the first 1,000 days of life — from pregnancy to age two — a critical period for early development and long-term health. Initially launched in 2022 in nine pilot barangays with 254 mother-and-child pairs, the program has since grown to cover more than 400 families in Luzon, over 300 in the Visayas, and more than 250 in Mindanao. The initiative is implemented in partnership with San Miguel Foundation (SMF), local government units, and private sector partners. It provides prenatal checkups, ultrasounds, maternal health education, and Mingo Meals — a fortified food made of rice, mung beans, and moringa, developed by the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) and produced by the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation. “These are the kinds of outcomes we hope for when we commit to long-term, community-based work,” said San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang. “Good nutrition starts before birth, and we want to make sure mothers and children in underprivileged communities receive sustained support — not just one-time assistance.” In 2024, as the first batch of children transitioned to toddlerhood, San Miguel Foods distributed an additional three to six months’ worth of Mingo Meals in new flavors, designed to suit changing taste preferences. The program is part of San Miguel’s broader sustainability agenda, which includes a commitment to uplift the lives of 15 million Filipinos by 2030. Beyond direct health support, the program also focuses on training barangay health workers (BHWs). To date, 102 BHWs have been trained through webinars led by DOST-FNRI, covering topics such as breastfeeding, postpartum care, and early childhood nutrition. These health workers then cascade knowledge to participating mothers in their communities.          

Globe is stepping up its efforts to make reliable, high-speed internet accessible to more Filipino households. By focusing on both fiber and 5G technologies, the company is working to deliver affordable, flexible, and high-quality connectivity to communities across the country. “Connectivity is an enabler of progress,” said Carl Cruz, Globe’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “By expanding our network infrastructure, we are unlocking access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for millions of Filipinos. Globe remains steadfast in working with industry partners and the government to ensure inclusive digital access.” What makes GFiber Prepaid (GFP) really stand out is how well it fits into the everyday lives of users. A lot of SEC D households prefer services that don’t tie them down with contracts or require big upfront payments. GFP gets that, offering a simple plug-and-play setup, reloadable options, and easy management through the GlobeOne app. Most users top up every 3 to 4 weeks, which keeps them connected without breaking the bank. It’s all about giving them the flexibility they need while keeping costs manageable. This focus on customer satisfaction is clearly making an impact. GFP’s Net Promoter Score (NPS) is an impressive 67, way above the Telco Industry average of 31 (Transaction NPS). It just goes to show how much users value not only the speed but the whole prepaid fiber experience. Customers appreciate the convenience and control it offers, making it a top pick for more Filipino households. Globe is also expanding reload options through AMAX and ECPay. This means users have more ways to stay connected, no matter what their routine looks like. On top of fiber connectivity, Globe is also pushing its 5G WiFi through Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). This tech makes it possible to deliver fast, reliable internet in places where fiber just isn’t practical, especially in underserved communities. This approach not only helps cover areas lacking fiber connectivity but also offloads traffic from Globe’s mobile network, improving overall service quality. Looking ahead, Globe has laid out a clear plan for 2025: expand access, deepen engagement, and enhance the customer experience. This approach ensures that both new and long-time users enjoy better connectivity designed around their needs. Globe is also working to close the digital gap in remote areas. The goal is to bring fiber connectivity to 100 more Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), giving people in these communities access to digital services that were previously out of reach. By the end of 2025, Globe plans to increase the number of cell sites in these areas from 600 to 700, helping more Filipinos stay online and connected. By prioritizing customer-first innovations and focusing on both fiber and 5G technologies, Globe is committed to providing better connectivity for more Filipino families—helping them thrive in today’s digital landscape.

Sila ang nangunguna sa ranking ng mga siyudad ng #MetroManila sa kasalukuyan at manunungkulan mula June 30, 2025 hanggang sa 2028. May mga bago, may mga nanatili. #Caloocan — Mayor Along Malapitan #LasPinas — Mayor April Aguilar #Makati – Mayor Nancy Binay #Mandaluyong — Mayor-elect Menchie Abalos #Marikina — Mayor-elect Maan Teodoro #Navotas — Mayor John Rey Tiangco #Paranaque — Mayor-elect Edwin Olivarez #Pasig — Mayor Vico Sotto #SanJuan — Mayor Francis Zamora #Taguig — Mayor Lani Cayetano #Valenzuela — Mayor Wes Gatchalian #Manila — Mayor-elect Isko Moreno #Pasay — Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano #Pateros — Mayor-elect Gerald German #QuezonCity — Mayor Joy Belmonte Proud ka ba sa mayor ng city niyo?   Source Comelec Source: COMELEC