Pledging to Empower Youth: McDonald’s Philippines and DOLE Renew SPES Commitment

Industry News

MANILA, Philippines—McDonald’s Philippines, under the majority ownership and operation of Golden Arches Development Corporation (GADC), reaffirms its dedication to fostering employment opportunities for Filipino students through an impactful partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). 

On July 14, the two entities solidified their renewed commitment by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), cementing their collaborative efforts in implementing the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES).

Image Courtesy of McDonald’s Philippines.

The roots of this collaboration trace back to 2011 when McDonald’s first teamed up with DOLE to provide employment opportunities for working students, out-of-school youth, and dependents of displaced workers through the SPES initiative. Over the years, this joint endeavor has enabled McDonald’s to support more than 16,000 underprivileged youth, offering them a chance to pursue their education while gaining invaluable work experience. Undeterred in its mission, GADC now aims to build on this success by pledging to benefit 1,441 deserving individuals through the SPES program in 2023.

Managing Director of McDonald’s Philippines, Margot B. Torres, emphasizes the positive impact of their business growth on local communities. “We continue to partner with government institutions like DOLE to help us offer quality employment for Filipinos who will not only receive an opportunity to earn but also gain life-long skills from the world-class training we offer,”

Image Courtesy of McDonald’s Philippines.

McDonald’s partners with USAID and PBEd for the Alternative Workforce Program, providing work-based training to 5,000 unemployed and out-of-school youths through YouthWorksPH. The program equips beneficiaries with financial knowledge, skills, and resources to manage their finances effectively during their transition into adulthood.

Committed to its mission of job creation and fair employment, McDonald’s Philippines proudly stands as one of the nation’s largest employers. Embracing diversity and equality, McDonald’s cultivates a joyful and inclusive environment where all Filipinos, regardless of race, age, gender, or sexual orientation, can flourish and reach their full potential.

To explore career opportunities with McDonald’s Philippines, visit the McDo PH Careers Facebook Page or check out their LinkedIn page for more information.