DICT Secretary Henry Aguda and SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio formalized the partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MOU), reaffirming their shared commitment by signing the Pledge of Commitment Wall. This symbolic gesture highlights both institutions’ united mission: to open real-world opportunities that help young Filipinos become future-ready.
Digital Corners: Free, Accessible Digital Upskilling for All
Designed as an innovative and open-access learning hub, the Digital Corner transforms traditional job fairs into job-and-learning fairs, offering visitors a chance not only to seek employment but also to develop in-demand digital skills. These stations provide free training on a range of digital competencies, including basic digital literacy, Python programming, Google Career Certificates, coding fundamentals, basic networking, cybersecurity awareness, 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 creating spaces where opportunity and capability meet—helping ensure Filipinos are not only employable but competitive.”
The Digital Corner is expected to benefit thousands of job seekers and students annually, serving as a bridge for SHS graduates preparing to enter the workforce or pursue specialized training in tech-enabled industries.
Digital Empowerment Starts With SHS Students
Nearly 1,000 SHS students from more than 40 schools, together with their parents and teachers, attended 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). As a key industry partner and host venue, SM Supermalls—along with SM Retail—is helping strengthen the connection between academic learning and real workplace experience.
Throughout the launch, the Skydome buzzed with energy as students explored interactive booths from DICT and private sector partners. These booths showcased possible career paths, entry-level opportunities, and digital upskilling programs. The event also featured career readiness talks, industry mentorship, and a Digital Economy Showcase that allowed students to gain firsthand exposure to future jobs.
Industry leaders such as SM Retail Vice President for Human Resources Maria Teresa P. Portillo, Newport World Resorts Marketing and Administrative Head Mark Ross Rubio, and DOST-ICT Office Deputy Executive Director Beatrice Quimson shared professional insights, workplace expectations, and career-building advice, providing valuable guidance for students preparing for immersion.
The EWIP’s expanded immersion structure increases student training from the existing 80–320 hours to 420–640 hours, ensuring deeper, more meaningful engagement with real-world work environments. With industry partners co-developing training plans, SHS students can align their academic knowledge with practical skills relevant to fields such as retail, hospitality, and technology.
SM Malls: The Future of Opportunity Centers
As SM Supermalls celebrates 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, the company continues to affirm its role as a catalyst for nation-building. With 88 malls nationwide, SM has long served as a bridge between job seekers and employers through easy-access job fairs and partnerships that support workforce development.
More than just spaces for shopping, SM malls have become platforms for empowerment, enabling Filipinos to access livelihood opportunities, industry training, and now, digital upskilling. By integrating Digital Corners into its job fairs, SM Supermalls strengthens its commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth, supporting youth development, and shaping a workforce prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.
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