SM Offices brought together 3,600 graduating students at the Bridges to Success Career Fair 2026 last March 21 at the SMX Convention Center.
The annual Bridges to Success Career Fair, a partnership between SM Offices and National University (NU), continues to demonstrate the powerful outcomes that emerge when education and industry align toward a shared purpose.
Now on its third year, Bridges to Success has evolved into a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering students to build brighter futures— bridging academic potential with real-world career opportunities through the unwavering support of SM Offices’ esteemed tenant-partners.
This year marked a significant milestone as the career fair expanded into a large-scale event held at SM Prime’s premier venue, the SMX Convention Center. The event welcomed a record-breaking 3,600 attendees from various NU Campuses and Asia Pacific College— reflecting its growing reach, relevance, and impact among the student community.
SM Prime Vice-President and SM Offices Head Alexis L. Ortiga welcomed the participants and highlighted the journey of the initiative.
“What began as a vision to help students achieve a better future has now turned into a powerful platform, connecting industry needs with exceptional talent and creating real pathways to opportunity,” he said.
A key highlight of the fair was its robust lineup of keynote sessions, expert talks, and panel discussions, all of which explored the current professional landscape. Industry leaders from BDO, Carelon, and China Bank emphasized the importance of continuous upskilling, utilization management, and a strong foundation in credit fundamentals—offering practical insights applicable both in the workplace and in everyday life.
The panel discussion, “From Campus to Career,” brought together professionals from Capgemini, DCX PH, Payreto, Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc., and Teleperformance. Panelists shared valuable guidance on job interviews, résumé writing, workplace etiquette, and long-term career development.
Complementing these sessions were interactive breakout discussions led by 2GO, DCX PH, iQor, Light Rail Manila, Okada Manila, and Payreto. These sessions provided participants with the opportunity to reflect on key learnings, gain deeper insights from industry practitioners, and engage directly with experts on navigating the job market as first-time applicants.
Throughout the day, company booths served as hubs for meaningful engagement, enabling students to connect directly with recruiters, explore career opportunities, and submit applications.
“I was nervous at first, but talking to the recruiters made me realize that they’re actually approachable. It made me feel more confident about applying for jobs,” shared Sephina Coral, a Hospitality Management student from NU.
“This event showed me that there are so many opportunities out there. You just have to be brave enough to take that first step. Bridges to Success really helped us a lot to experience and realize a lot of job-seeking essentials,” she added.
The Bridges to Success Career Fair 2026 was presented by SM Offices in partnership with National University, with Platinum Sponsors BDO, Capgemini, Carelon, China Bank, DCX PH Inc., Payreto, Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc., and Teleperformance.
With its continued success and growing impact, audiences can look forward to an even bigger Bridges to Success in 2027.
NU Sr. Director for HR–Learning & Development Lyle Dela Cerna (L) and SM Offices Head Alexis L. Ortiga (R) address a crowd of aspiring professionals at the Bridges To Success Career Fair 2026.