THE German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) and SM Foundation (SMFI) have committed to working together on employment-related initiatives, such as hosting unique job fairs in SM malls and short-term training programs for chamber member organizations.

The two groups signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to build "a job-ready workforce, upscale talent, and connecting businesses," GPCCI President Maan Mariano said.

By upskilling and improving opportunities through job matching, SMFI's JOBS (Job Opportunities Building Skills) initiative aims to eliminate work distribution gaps and alleviate unemployment and underemployment.

"This MOU is not merely a piece of paper that will be signed. It is a partnership with a dedication to influencing the Philippines' job market going forward," Mariano said.

The GPCCI "has consistently remained dedicated to supporting programs that close the skills gap between the workforce and industry demands, as well as promoting and facilitating dual education and training approaches," she said.

A recent worldwide poll conducted just for German businesses showed that 60 percent of respondents anticipated growth in the upcoming year, and 58 percent reported a favorable business climate in the Philippines.

Learning must extend beyond the classroom and should result in actual professions and economic mobility, said Carmen Linda Atayde, executive director for Education Programs at SMFI.

"That is why our partnership with the GPCCI under the JOBS program is so meaningful, and this initiative connects skills training with actual employment opportunities, ensuring that education truly transforms lives through short course training, job fairs, and strong industry linkages. We are preparing individuals not just to find jobs but to build careers in high-demand industries," Atayde said.

The SM job fairs offer government one-stop-shop services for employment paperwork, including national ID, SSS, Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth, TIN, NBI or police clearance, and SSS along SM Job Fairs across the country. The short courses and skills training, which include artificial intelligence, computer security and related subjects, will be conducted by experts from the National University and the Asia-Pacific College.

By holding 183 job fairs at its malls around the country in 2024, SM Supermalls was able to link 107,000 job seekers with nearly 6,000 companies. Of those, 14,500 were hired on the spot, further solidifying SM's position as a key employment hub.

Employees will benefit from the relationship by gaining digital skills to boost their productivity and advance their careers. Among the courses offered to interested AmCham employees are computer security, cloud foundation, business analytics and digital marketing for e-commerce.