Jollibee Group and DepEd Forge Educational Partnership to Boost Student Employability
In a landmark move to bridge the gap between education and industry, the Jollibee Group has officially partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) to co-develop a specialized Senior High School (SHS) curriculum and work immersion program focused on the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) sector. This collaboration, formally launched on January 15, 2026, at Jollibee Plaza in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, aims to equip Filipino students with practical, future-ready skills while strengthening national workforce development.
Structured Program Components for Real-World Learning
The DepEd–Jollibee Group initiative comprises two interconnected components designed to provide a holistic educational experience. The QSR Curriculum introduces students to the fast-paced, high-volume nature of the industry, emphasizing foundational skills such as discipline, consistency, teamwork, and systems management. Complementing this is the Work Immersion Program, which offers structured in-store exposure, allowing learners to apply classroom concepts in real-world settings and cultivate essential workplace behaviors.
Leadership Insights on Nation-Building and Workforce Readiness
During the launch event, key figures from both organizations highlighted the transformative potential of this partnership. Ruth Angeles, Chief Human Resources Officer of Jollibee Group Philippines and Head of Human Resources for Jollibee International, emphasized the program's dual focus. "Together, the curriculum and work immersion are designed to help learners graduate with employable, future-ready competencies so they can step into the world of work with readiness, confidence, and aspiration," she stated. Angeles further underscored the initiative's broader impact, noting that it bridges the gap between academic learning and industry demands, creating value for students, businesses, and the future workforce.
Joseph Tanbuntiong, Chief Executive Officer of Jollibee Group Philippines and Head of Jollibee Global, framed the collaboration as a cornerstone of nation-building. "For us at the Jollibee Group, this is fundamentally about nation-building. Sustainability is not only about systems or scale, but also about investing early in the next generation, equipping them with skills, confidence, and values that allow them to contribute meaningfully to society," he explained. Tanbuntiong added that by enhancing learning and employability, the program helps build stronger communities and a more resilient Philippines, fostering real change through education-industry synergy.
Aligning with Corporate Philosophy and Sustainability Goals
This initiative reflects the Jollibee Group's Inspire Joy leadership philosophy, which aims to empower young Filipinos to believe in their abilities, explore diverse career paths, and pursue their aspirations with pride. It also aligns with the Group's sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow, promoting inclusive growth in the communities where the company operates. A cross-functional workgroup, comprising representatives from DepEd's Bureau of Curriculum Development and External Partnerships Service alongside Jollibee Group experts, will ensure the curriculum meets educational standards while incorporating industry insights.
By integrating practical QSR knowledge into the SHS curriculum, this partnership not only prepares students for immediate employment opportunities but also instills a sense of hope and opportunity for their future careers. As Tanbuntiong concluded, "This initiative will change the way young Filipinos see their future, and it will give them a joyful pathway filled with hope and opportunity." Published on March 27, 2026, this collaboration marks a significant step toward fostering a skilled and confident workforce in the Philippines.
