Entrepreneurs and Partners Unite for MSME Summit 2025 Hosted by Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines and SM Supermalls

Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, in partnership with SM Supermalls, successfully gathered entrepreneurs, industry leaders, business owners, educators, and key ecosystem partners at the MSME Summit 2025 held at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia. The landmark event underscored the joint mission of Jobstreet and SM Supermalls to empower Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—long recognized as the backbone of the Philippine economy.

In her opening address, Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, emphasized that the summit serves as both a learning platform and a catalyst for business growth. She highlighted how MSMEs make up the majority of registered businesses in the country and play a crucial role in job creation, community development, and nationwide economic resilience. The summit, she said, reaffirms Jobstreet’s commitment to providing MSMEs with accessible hiring solutions, technological support, and strategic insights needed to scale sustainably.

One of the event’s central messages came from Mr. Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, who delivered an inspirational keynote while receiving a Plaque of Appreciation from Jobstreet by SEEK. “SM is not just a venue—it’s a partner in every MSME’s success story,” he shared. He also noted that SM’s rise from a small shoe store in Carriedo to a nationwide network of 88 malls mirrors the entrepreneurial journey of many MSMEs. “Almost 70% of our tenants are MSMEs—their success is the foundation of SM’s continued growth. When MSMEs thrive, communities prosper, and our nation advances.”

Through the SM for MSMEs program, entrepreneurs gain access to high-foot-traffic locations, enhanced market visibility, and business support resources. This long-standing advocacy underscores SM Supermalls’ vision of creating environments where small businesses can flourish and innovate.

The summit’s learning sessions were among its most valuable components. Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet guided MSMEs on building and scaling their first hire, while Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College demonstrated practical AI applications for small businesses—focusing on productivity, cost savings, and digital competitiveness. Logistics and operations experts Lalamove PH, 2GO Travel, and DITO BizBayan presented delivery, mobility, and digital solutions tailored for growing enterprises.

Marketing strategies also took center stage. Ms. Life Dawn Cervero of TikTok shared practical techniques on maximizing content, community engagement, and brand visibility even on a limited budget. Meanwhile, a joint finance panel featuring BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo, and Asialink offered actionable advice on cash flow management, accessible loans, digital banking tools, and financial planning to support MSME expansion.

Real-life success stories enriched the program further. Entrepreneurs Kay and Karl Santos of 1919 Chocolate shared their journey of scaling a proudly Filipino brand, proving that local products can compete with the best when backed by passion, innovation, and persistence.

Throughout the venue, the Partner Passport Challenge encouraged attendees to explore booths showcasing hiring platforms, financial tools, logistics services, digital business solutions, and technology-driven opportunities—turning the summit into a vibrant hub for networking and discovery.

The MSME Summit 2025 ultimately reaffirmed the unwavering dedication of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines and SM Supermalls to nurturing Filipino entrepreneurship. By providing access to resources, knowledge-sharing platforms, and strategic partnerships, the summit empowered MSMEs to innovate boldly, recruit smarter, adapt to digital transformation, and thrive in an ever-evolving economic landscape.