CEBU — More job opportunities will open for qualified senior citizens and persons with disabilities in Cebu City after the city government and Jollibee Foods Corporation signed a Memorandum of Agreement on September 11, 2026, at Cebu City Hall. The partnership implements an Inclusive Employment Program across 36 JFC stores.
A Milestone for Inclusive Hiring
Mayor Nestor D. Archival led the signing alongside Ruth B. Angeles, Chief Human Resources Officer of Jollibee Foods Corporation Philippines. The program makes Cebu City the first local government unit in the Visayas to adopt JFC’s inclusive employment initiative.
Archival described the partnership as a spark that will ignite broader change. He said the city envisions becoming Sustainable, Smart, and Inclusive by 2035, with senior citizens and PWDs at the heart of that vision. He also noted requests from seniors to allow those older than 65 to apply as long as they are capable.
Angeles confirmed there is no age limit for applicants who can perform the work. She expressed gratitude for the city’s support, saying the program creates meaningful opportunities for marginalized sectors. The signing was attended by JFC representatives from Jollibee, Greenwich, Burger King, and Chowking.
Program Details and Beneficiaries
The program will engage more than 100 beneficiaries per batch across 36 participating stores in Cebu City. Senior citizens and PWDs will be assigned to customer-facing roles rather than kitchen duties. Positions include guest relations staff, table managers, drink drawers, and order presenters.
Angeles said the roles ensure participants are seen, valued, and respected. The initiative builds on national laws such as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act and the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, which encourage private corporations to hire from marginalized sectors.
The city government had previously launched a senior citizen employment program in March 2026, screening 257 seniors for part-time roles. An ordinance granting tax incentives to businesses hiring seniors, PWDs, and returning citizens was also approved in August 2026.
Roles and Implementation Process
Under the agreement, local government offices will assist with applicant screening, training, medical examinations, and information dissemination. The Jollibee Group will oversee recruitment, orientation, skills training, and onboarding of successful applicants.
The city will coordinate through the Department of Social Welfare and Services, the Department of Welfare and Urban Poor, the Cebu City Medical Center, and the Office for Senior Citizens’ Affairs. These agencies will play key roles in ensuring the program runs smoothly.
Archival emphasized that caring for seniors and PWDs goes beyond financial aid. He said the city must create opportunities where they can contribute, earn, and feel valued. The program reflects that philosophy by offering dignified work rather than mere assistance.
A Nationwide Push for Inclusion
The Cebu City partnership forms part of Jollibee Group’s nationwide inclusive employment program. Since its launch in 2019, the initiative has provided jobs to over 1,000 senior citizens and PWDs, including 451 hires in 2025 alone. It has been implemented in Manila, Quezon City, Davao, Baguio, and Taguig, among other areas.
Joseph Tanbuntiong, CEO of Jollibee Group Philippines, said business growth is strongest when it is inclusive. Angeles added that work gives people confidence, friendship, and purpose, not just income. The program was paused during the pandemic but resumed expansion in 2023.
Vision for 2035
Mayor Archival reiterated his administration’s goal of making Cebu City a sustainable, smart, and inclusive city by 2035. He said the partnership with Jollibee is a significant step toward that vision. The city continues to build partnerships that create opportunities for all residents.
