Beyond a Paycheck: How a Job Fair is Inspiring a New Generation of Public Servants

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

In a world often driven by personal gain, a job fair held at a bustling mall is proving that the desire to serve a greater purpose is alive and well. As part of the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary, SM Supermalls partnered with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to hold a series of nationwide job fairs throughout September. But these were no ordinary job fairs. They were gateways to a future of purpose, offering Filipinos the chance to build careers that directly impact communities and transform lives.

A Call to Serve

The scene at SM City North EDSA was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of public service. While job fairs typically focus on private sector roles, this event was exclusively dedicated to government careers, giving job seekers access to opportunities in national agencies, local government units, and state universities. For many, this was a long-awaited chance. Ken Gonzaga, a job applicant, expressed his gratitude, stating, "I am happy that they came up with a job fair for government agencies. Many still want to serve and work for our government".

The sentiment was echoed by Joanne Moriel, a fresh graduate who has her sights set on a government job. “Especially with what’s happening now in the country, I want to be part of the public sector to be able to help make a difference,” she said. Her words cut to the heart of what this initiative is all about—moving beyond a simple paycheck to find a deeper purpose in nation-building.

A Partnership for Progress

This ambitious project was made possible by the powerful collaboration between SM Supermalls and the CSC. SM Supermalls President Steven Tan highlighted the mall's role as a vital partner, stating, "SM is honored to celebrate 125 years of Philippine Civil Service by opening our malls as venues where Filipinos can discover not just jobs, but meaningful careers in public service". The malls' accessibility and convenience made it easier for countless Filipinos to explore careers in public service, as noted by Mary Grace Dugay, Director III of the Civil Service Commission.

The series of job fairs kicked off on September 3 and 4 in various locations, including SM City Tuguegarao, SM CDO Downtown Premier, SM City Butuan, SM City North EDSA, and SM City Iloilo. The celebration is set to conclude on September 9 at SM City Baguio.

By making these opportunities accessible and inclusive, SM Supermalls and the CSC are doing more than just filling vacancies. They are empowering a new generation of Filipinos to become agents of change and to build extraordinary futures while strengthening their communities and the nation as a whole.

Simple Acts, Shared Impact: The SM Green Movement Rallies the Philippines for a Greener Tomorrow

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

Amidst growing environmental challenges, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. is taking a stand with the SM Green Movement, a sustainability initiative that reframes the journey to a greener future as a collective effort built on mindful daily choices. It's a powerful call to action that unites the company, communities, and the entire country in the pursuit of a more climate-resilient and prosperous future.

Simple Acts, Shared Impact

The SM Green Movement began as a series of personal stories during the pandemic lockdown, with employees consciously choosing to reduce waste, conserve water, and use energy responsibly. These "simple acts" planted the seeds for something far grander: a movement that transforms ambitious sustainability goals into everyday practices. By focusing on waste, water, and energy, SM Prime inspires everyone—from suppliers and tenants to residents and mallgoers—to play their part in creating more livable, greener cities.

The movement is anchored in SM Prime’s mission to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, advance water stewardship, and work towards a waste-free future. As Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls, explains, "We’re not just building malls, homes, or offices—we’re building opportunities for everyone to be part of the solution". It’s a powerful message that the most impactful change can begin with the small, everyday choices we make.

The Power of Partnership

At its core, the SM Green Movement is a testament to the belief that lasting change is not a solo endeavor but a collaborative one. The movement's strength lies in its ability to mobilize people around a common cause. SM Prime works hand-in-hand with local government units, NGOs, schools, and community groups to co-create solutions that address both environmental needs and the realities of daily life.

This collective impact is what drives real change. Every recycled bottle, every drop of water saved, and every watt conserved adds up, creating a shared prosperity for generations to come.  For example, SM City Baguio's water treatment facility gives water a second life, while water trucks at the Mall of Asia Complex use 100% recycled water to nourish the greenery. The company also promotes proper waste segregation with clearly marked bins for recyclables, disposables, and compostables, encouraging communities to participate in building a waste-free Philippines.

A Platform for Advocacy and Action

Today, the SM Green Movement is a growing platform for advocacy and action, showing every Filipino that sustainability is well within their reach. Through projects like the SM City Fairview solar photovoltaic (PV) system—the country’s largest rooftop solar PV system on a commercial building—SM Prime demonstrates its commitment to energy efficiency on a massive scale.

With every story, every new supporter, and every green step, the movement continues to expand, reinforcing the simple yet profound idea that caring for the planet and its people starts with the simple acts we choose to do together.

Dining Out With Your Furbaby: A Culinary Adventure at SM City Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

Gone are the days when you had to choose between enjoying a great meal and spending quality time with your beloved pet. SM City Manila has created a haven for pet lovers, where delicious food and furry companionship go hand-in-hand. This isn't just a meal; it's a "furbaby" food outing, and a new era of unique finds awaits you and your four-legged friend.

Max's Restaurant: A Taste of Timeless Filipino Comfort

Step into a classic culinary journey at Max's Restaurant, a name synonymous with Filipino comfort food. Here, you can indulge in their famous dishes with your pet right by your side. Start your meal with the refreshing and crunchy Lumpiang Ubod, a delightful mix of shredded heart of palm, vegetables, pork, shrimp, and crabmeat wrapped in a delicate crepe. Don't miss the crowd-pleasing All-Beef Kare Kare, a rich and savory bowl of slow-cooked beef cuts and tripe in a thick peanut sauce, served with Max’s signature sautéed shrimp paste. It's the perfect spot for a hearty, pet-friendly family meal.

Scorched Smokehouse: A Smoky American-Style Feast

For those who crave smoky goodness and a laid-back atmosphere, Scorched Smokehouse is a top choice. This restaurant specializes in American-style smoked meats, including flavorful pork ribs, USDA beef, and pulled pork. Their secret lies in slow-smoking the meats for up to 12 hours using imported hickory wood chips, resulting in exceptionally tender and flavorful dishes. The overload meals offer a complete experience with creamy pasta, smoked meat, java rice, and a dessert bar. To beat the heat, sip on the fan-favorite Scorched Iced Mocha while you and your furbaby relax.

MESA: Modern Filipino Dining at Its Finest

MESA takes traditional Filipino cuisine and gives it a modern, stylish twist. The star of the show is their Pinatayong Manok, a whole chicken marinated and deep-fried to a perfect golden brown. This succulent, crispy-skinned dish is presented upright at your table, making for a dramatic and eye-catching centerpiece. Pair it with the smoky and flavorful Tinapa Rice for an unforgettable meal. MESA’s cozy ambiance welcomes pet parents to dine in comfort and style with their furry companions.

Classic Savory: Nostalgic Filipino-Chinese Favorites

Take a trip down memory lane at Classic Savory, a cherished spot that blends tradition and comfort. Famous for its signature fried chicken, this restaurant offers a delicious selection of Filipino-Chinese dishes. You can't go wrong with their Classic Savory Chicken, crispy Shanghai Rolls, or a hearty serving of Fried Rice. For a refreshing finish, try the sweet Iced Coffee Jelly or the Savory Tropical Cooler. As a pet-friendly space, Classic Savory makes it easy to enjoy their delicious offerings without leaving your pet behind.

Khao Khai Thai Chicken House: Street Food Flavors from Bangkok

Transport your taste buds to Bangkok with the bold and authentic flavors of Khao Khai Thai Chicken House. A true cult favorite, their signature Gai Tod (Thai Fried Chicken) is celebrated for its crispy exterior and juicy meat. For a truly authentic street food experience, enjoy the Gai Tod with the tangy Som Tam (papaya salad) and a sweet, creamy Thai Milk Tea. This vibrant spot is a must-visit for a flavorful adventure that you can share with your furry companion.

Bebang Halo Halo: The Ultimate Sweet Escape

No culinary adventure is complete without a sweet treat, and Bebang Halo Halo provides the perfect finale for your foodie bonding session. This dessert shop is known for its unique flavors and generous servings of the classic Filipino dessert. Their crowd favorite is the Presidential Halo Halo, a delightful mix of premium ingredients like leche flan, sago, ube halaya, and sweet corn. What sets it apart is its creamy frozen milk base, a richer alternative to traditional shaved ice. It’s a sweet escape that you can enjoy with your pet on a hot day.

With a growing number of pet-friendly food destinations, SM City Manila is transforming the mall experience into a culinary treat and a bonding moment for you and your furbaby. Go on a food outing and create lasting memories, all while discovering new and unique finds.