2026 JET Programme now accepting applications

THE Embassy of Japan in the Philippines is now accepting applications for the Coordinator for International Relations (CIR) and Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) positions for the 2026 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme.

Next year marks the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. In celebration of this commemorative year, the embassy invites all Filipino JET Programme aspirants eager to begin a new journey in Japan to submit their applications.

The JET Programme was introduced in 1987 to help deepen mutual understanding between the people of Japan and those of other countries through foreign language exchange and cultural immersion at the local level.

Since the 2025 recruitment cycle, the embassy has accepted applications for both positions. CIRs work in local government offices in Japan focusing on international exchange, while ALTs are assigned to primary to secondary education institutions and local boards of education across Japan.

This year, more than 66 JET participants were sent from the Philippines, bringing the total number of Filipino participants to over 500.

Duties and eligibilities

CIRs are placed mainly in local governments across Japan. They assist in international exchange matters by translating documents; planning, designing and implementing projects; excellent in oral and written communication with non-Japanese residents and communities; and other related tasks.

Meanwhile, ALTs work in public or private schools or local boards of education in the prefecture or municipality of their assignment. Their primary task is to assist in classes led by Japanese teachers of English.

Applicants must be Filipino citizens and possess excellent oral and written English communication skills. They should be physically and mentally fit to work abroad and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, or be able to obtain such qualifications by the designated arrival date.

Additionally, CIR applicants must possess Japanese language proficiency (at least JLPT N2 or equivalent).

How to apply

GUIDELINES, application forms, and other requirements are available at https://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000193_00001.html.

Submission deadlines are November 28, 2025 (Friday) for ALT applicants, and December 5, 2025 (Friday) for CIR applicants. Applications must be submitted via post or courier to THE JET PROGRAMME, Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, 2627 Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City 1300.

House panel exhorts COA for a thorough probe on BARMM alleged P6.5-B fund misuse

The House Committee on Public Accounts is urging the Commission on Audit to conduct a specialized forensic audit into the alleged irregular use of P6.5 billion in funds released to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao under the 2024 Local Gov’t. Support Fund.

In Committee Report No. 1502, lawmakers sought an in-depth investigation to determine if any violations of law were committed in the disbursement of the funds, which were reportedly released within the span of only four months while the BARMM management was then under Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim.

The committee noted that a ‘systematic scheme to redirect public funds’ may have taken place, warranting a probe beyond standard audit procedures. It emphasized that the COA should employ forensic capabilities to trace the flow of money and identify any potential misuse.

According to the committee report, approximately P1.5 billion was disbursed each month during the period under review, prompting concerns over the speed and scale of the releases.

The probe also uncovered testimonies from local officials who claimed they received funds for projects that were neither requested nor implemented. Some officials said they were later instructed to return the money after the projects were cancelled.

The committee’s findings pointed to possible political favoritism in the allocation of funds, particularly in favor of local government units and barangays believed to be allied with the United Bangsamoro Justice Party.

The House panel members said that the investigation must determine whether these fund releases were used for political advantage ahead of the supposed May 2025 BARMM Parliamentary Election.

The panel report described the situation as a ‘complex operation’ designed to divert public resources for political and personal purposes under the administration of then CM Ebrahim, who also serves as president of the UBJP.

Documents and testimonies presented during committee hearings indicated that the P6.5-billion fund was distributed to LGUs and barangays within a short time frame, with some receiving up to P25 million, while opposition-leaning areas reportedly received none.

The committee expressed concern that the timing and distribution pattern of the funds may have influenced local political dynamics and undermined equitable governance in the region.

In its recommendation, the panel urged the COA to scrutinize all disbursement documents, project proposals, and fund transfers to ensure transparency and accountability.

The committee clarified, however, that its report does not yet assign culpability to any individual but seeks to uncover the full facts and uphold responsible fiscal management in the BARMM.

Suarez of UST GS, FMS receives research award

UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS-GRADUATE SCHOOL (UST-GS) Health Research program lead and Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS) academic staff Prof. Consuelo B. Gonzalez-Suarez MD, PhD was a recipient of the 34th Dr. Jose P. Rizal Award under the Research Category.

The award was presented by the Philippine Medical Association during its 118th Annual Convention.

The award recognizes outstanding contributions in various fields of medicine, namely academics, clinical practice, community development, government service, and health research in the Philippines.

Dr. Suarez has published more than 100 peer-reviewed journal articles, and currently leads the NICER Program (Niche Centers in the Regions for Research and Development) for the Center for Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation: OPLAN Atletang Pinoy, which is dedicated to conducting research aimed at improving athletic performance in the Philippines.

She also leads a groundbreaking international collaboration titled ‘Precision in Motion: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Dynamic Shoulder Ultrasound Assessment Across Ethnicities and Pain Syndromes.’ This is a joint initiative between the National Taiwan University Hospital, Beihu Branch, and UST under the Manila Economic and Cultural Office-Taipei Economic and Cultural Office program.

Discover what’s around you: Viber Marketplace is now open for business

Super app Rakuten Viber has announced the launch of Viber Marketplace (vb.me/vibermarketplaceph) in the Philippines. Within the Marketplace tab, Viber users can easily find and quickly connect with thousands of local businesses offering a wide variety of products and services, such as beauty salons, health services, restaurants, shopping, and more.

Marketplace replaces the ‘Explore’ tab and helps users discover local businesses in three convenient ways: by viewing businesses displayed for them, by browsing categories, and by searching for specific sellers. Users can explore business profiles, view product or service catalogs, and message business owners directly without sharing their phone number. This makes it simple and secure for users to ask questions, get all the information they need and make the best choice in just a few taps, all within the Viber app.

When users open the new tab, they can choose to share their exact location so they see businesses closest to them. If users prefer not to share this, they will see a selection of businesses based on general location information. As users move around the Philippines, the results update automatically. Viber Marketplace highlights the most relevant and active businesses, making it easy for users to discover helpful local options.

Viber Marketplace will strengthen communities by enabling people and businesses to connect and communicate securely within the Viber app especially as more Filipinos are becoming entrepreneurs, and more consumers are supporting these MSMEs by shopping locally. A 2022 Manulife survey reported that 41 percent of Filipino respondents had established a business and 65 percent said they started buying from small and micro businesses during the pandemic.

Despite this, many small businesses say it is hard to get noticed online (56 percent) and find new customers (60 percent). Viber Marketplace is making it easier for users to discover and support the local businesses they care about.

Announcing Rakuten Viber as the official messaging application of Go Negosyo during its recent Online Selling Summit, founder Joey Concepcion pointed to the advantages digital technology has provided local businesses and how teaming up with a super app like Viber creates better access, wider reach, and more opportunities.

‘Digital technology has already broken down so many barriers for MSMEs, increasing their access to the money, markets, and mentoring they need in order to succeed,’ Concepcion stated. ‘This partnership with Rakuten Viber as Go Negosyo’s Official Communication App marks a powerful next step. Viber has played a significant role in our mission to empower MSMEs across the Philippines.’

‘Viber’s mission as a super app is to empower both users and businesses,’ says Ritesh Shah, general manager of FinTech and VP of business solutions at Rakuten Viber. ‘Local businesses in the Philippines are highly digital and use a variety of solutions to connect with customers and stay visible. Viber is the leading communication platform in the country, and our goal is to help local businesses reach their customers more effectively, while also making it easy for people to find and chat with the businesses they need.’

Whether you’re a user eager to support local entrepreneurs, products, and services, or a small business owner looking for greater exposure to a wider user base and new customer acquisition opportunities, Viber offers you a dynamic platform to discover through Viber Marketplace.

EU releases pound 750 000 in aid for Cebu earthquake, tracks Davao situation

THE European Union has released pound 750 000 (over P50 million) in humanitarian aid to respond to the recent earthquake that struck the province of Cebu, as it expressed its solidarity with the people affected by Fridays’ two powerful earthquakes in Davao Oriental and nearby areas.

‘The EU is monitoring and assessing the situation for possible further assistance to families and communities affected by this new earthquake,’ the EU said in a statement.

The P50-million allocation released to Cebu will be used to provide emergency relief, such as shelter and water and sanitation, to the most affected population, notably displaced people who have lost their homes, the EU said.

Of the total allocation, pound 250 000 will support the Philippine Red Cross in delivering cash assistance, tents and household items to people that lost their homes, as well as healthcare services. The funding is part of the EU’s overall contribution to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

This new funding comes in addition to the pound 7.3 million already allocated this year in humanitarian aid and disaster preparedness to the Philippines. This included pound 1.3 allocated in response to tropical cyclones that affected the country in July and late September.

The EU funding is being made available via the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) department of the European Commission. With headquarters in Brussels and a global network of field offices, the EU helps millions of victims of conflict and disasters around the world every year, providing assistance to the most vulnerable people on the basis of humanitarian needs.

The European Union is signatory to a pound 12 million agreement with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to support the Federation’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF). Each time a National Red Cross or Red Crescent Society needs immediate financial support to respond to a disaster, it can request funds from the DREF, which can then be replenished by the donors.

BEYOND THE FINISH LINE | GPSS 2025 and the business of cultural immersion

As engines roar to life, Singapore bursts into motion-not only on the track but across every corner of the city. The Grand Prix Season doesn’t begin when the lights turn green; it starts weeks, even months before. From September 26 to October 5, 2025, Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS) once again transformed the city into a vibrant playground of music, fashion, food, and immersive entertainment.

During this period, Singapore becomes more than a host city for Formula 1-it turns into a living, breathing stage for culture, creativity, and connection. As engines roar across the Marina Bay Street Circuit, the rest of the city comes alive with experiences that celebrate identity beyond the track.

A melting pot of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences, Singapore’s identity is built on diversity. Every corner reflects how different cultures have shaped its community, offering visitors a glimpse into a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. From bustling hawker centres serving heritage dishes to designer collaborations and art-driven pop-ups, culture and commerce meet at every turn.

Singapore’s commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in how it repurposes historic spaces for modern use. As one tour guide explained, New Bahru was never abandoned; instead, it was thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant creative hub. The former school building now hosts pop-up stores, art showcases, workshops, and outdoor activities, offering something fresh for locals and tourists alike.

Its monthly events make it a go-to destination for those seeking new experiences, from interactive exhibitions to community gatherings. This approach, known as retrofitting, reflects Singapore’s broader vision of honoring the past while embracing the future.

Singapore also introduced me to Sri Lankan dishes for the first time at Kotuwa, a restaurant in New Bahru, and I enjoyed them more than I expected. From trying its side dishes like dahl, red lentils tempered with black mustard, to perfectly spiced mutton rolls, every bite was full of flavor.

It’s a must-try, especially for those who enjoy foods with a kick. The bold flavors and warm hospitality perfectly reflected Singapore’s mix of cultures, showing how the city’s culinary scene continues to evolve while embracing influences from across Asia.

Art and storytelling also shape the city’s cultural landscape. Singapore’s colorful murals capture stories of the past, ensuring that history remains visible in everyday life. The restored opera house in Chinatown, now converted into a boutique hotel, preserves both architecture and memory. Meanwhile, Yip Yew Chong’s famous mural Letter Writer depicts the early days of immigrant communication, reminding passersby of how letters once connected families across oceans.

From there, Chinatown offers even more to explore. Chinatown Complex, home to over 700 food stalls, provides a true taste of local life, while the nearby Maxwell Hawker Centre, famously visited by celebrities such as Lady Gaga and Dua Lipa, draws global attention to Singapore’s food heritage. Just a short walk away stands the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple. Its intricate tower and vibrant architecture make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to appreciate the island’s spiritual and artistic roots.

Beyond its well-known landmarks, Chinatown also hides smaller gems worth discovering-from souvenir shops tucked in narrow alleys to old traditional tea houses that preserve the essence of Chinese hospitality. One of the recommended spots our tour guide mentioned was Yum Cha, known for its authentic tea experience and freshly steamed dim sum. It’s definitely on our bucket list for the next trip to Singapore.

Throughout GPSS 2025, pop-up stores and creative collaborations brought the city to life. Across town, partnerships between brands and Formula 1 teams gave fans a closer look at racing culture. Some activations even included surprise appearances by drivers, adding an extra layer of excitement and cultural immersion.

One standout was Hit the Apex at Clarke Quay, a Hot Wheels x GPSS collaboration featuring F1inspired miniatures, interactive play tracks, and a free photo booth for fans. Meanwhile, Gallery 26 in Dempsey displayed cars once driven by Formula 1 legends Kimi Räikkönen and Charles Leclerc.

During GPSS, the entire city seemed to move in sync with the rhythm of racing. From art exhibitions to exclusive dining promotions, Singapore’s Grand Prix Season extended far beyond the circuit, transforming sport into a full-fledged lifestyle celebration.

Beyond the race itself, GPSS 2025 proved that the Formula 1 weekend in Singapore is as much about cultural expression as it is about speed. The city’s creative energy, seen in its food, art, heritage, and innovation, continues to redefine what a Grand Prix experience can be.

When the checkered flag waves and the engines quiet down, Singapore keeps shining. The glow lingers not only on the circuit but in the streets, galleries, and stories that make the city come alive each Grand Prix season.

No matter how many times travelers like me return, there is always more to learn and explore. Every piece of history that Singapore preserves offer insight into the traditions and culture the city continues to carry forward. Fully immersing oneself in these experiences allows travelers to truly appreciate and even fall in love with a place that might not be their home, yet can feel like home when its stories and culture are embraced.

Unified data system aims to track Filipino learners from school to work

THE Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) commended the signing of an agreement to establish a unified and interoperable data system that will track Filipino learners from their first day in school until their eventual entry into the workforce.

The system will be led by the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The landmark pact, signed during the first Joint Management Committee Meeting of the three agencies, responds to EDCOM 2’s call for stronger data convergence to fix long-standing fragmentation in the education sector.

‘For too long, our view of a student’s journey has been fragmented. We are finally seeing the complete picture-from their first day in Kindergarten to their entry into the workforce,’ DepEd chief Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara said.

He emphasized that the unified system will allow policymakers to identify gaps in learning pathways and provide timely interventions.

For his part, Director General Jose Francisco Benitez of TESDA described the initiative as a ‘game-changer’ for workforce preparation: ‘By understanding a learner’s background, we can better guide them into technical-vocational tracks that lead directly to in-demand jobs.’

Meanwhile, Chairperson Shirley Agrupis of CHED said the system would help refine scholarship programs, improve enrolment projections, and ensure degree offerings remain relevant.

The interoperable system will adopt DepEd’s Learner Reference Number or LRN as the unique identifier for students across education levels. It is expected to improve targeting of government assistance programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps, and the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program, while also providing accurate enrollment projections for state universities and colleges.

The system’s pilot run is set for 2026, with full rollout targeted in 2027.

The project will also involve coordination with other government agencies, including the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Philippine Statistics Authority, to align with broader national development goals.

CarBEV and AngCars partner to launch the Philippines’ first all-electric ride-hailing fleet

In support of the country’s shift toward modernizing the transport sector, CarBEV (Battery Electric Vehicle), a pioneer in electric vehicle (EV) fleet solutions, has partnered with AngCars, the four-wheel ride-hailing arm of Angkas, to introduce the Philippines’ first large-scale all-electric fleet for app-based mobility.

The alliance represents a key milestone in advancing sustainable transport solutions in the Philippines, with equal focus on environmental impact and driver empowerment. Following the signing held last October 6, CarBEV and AngCars are set to officially launch their partnership on October 28, 2025, with the deployment of 50 brand-new Next Automatic Taxi of Bestune as the pilot fleet, setting a new benchmark for smart, efficient, and zero-emission urban mobility.

‘This partnership with AngCars is more than a business move; it’s a step toward reshaping how Filipinos move,’ said Christian Bradley, CEO of CarBEV. ‘Our vision is to make electric mobility accessible to everyone, helping operators lower costs, enhancing the passenger experience, and contributing to the country’s sustainability goals.’

Empowering the People Behind the Wheel

For CarBEV, electrifying transport is just the beginning; the real mission is empowering the people behind the wheel. Through CarBEV’s Lease-to-Own program, drivers can get behind the wheel of brand-new electric vehicles with zero down payment, up to 70% lower monthly costs compared to traditional gasoline units, and full coverage on maintenance, insurance, and roadside assistance. The program allows drivers to focus on stable income opportunities while enjoying the long-term benefits of EV ownership. It also ensures they receive government-mandated benefits such as SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG contributions, giving drivers the stability of a secure and sustainable livelihood.

‘Driver empowerment is part of our DNA at Angkas,’ said Nur Laminero, Head of AngCars. ‘Working with CarBEV lets us take that commitment further, helping our four-wheel drivers embrace sustainable mobility while improving their livelihood.

The collaboration reinforces the goals of the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), which advocates greener, more cost-efficient transport across the Philippines. By transitioning TNVS fleets from gasoline to electric, CarBEV and AngCars are leading the charge toward a transport system that benefits both the environment and urban commuters alike.

Toward a Smarter, Sustainable Philippines

The CarBEV x AngCars partnership represents just the beginning of a broader movement toward sustainable mobility in the Philippines. By 2026, CarBEV aims to expand its fleet to 1,000 electric vehicles, working closely with ride-hailing, logistics, and corporate partners to accelerate the country’s transition to cleaner transport systems.

‘We want every ride to make a difference, for the environment, for drivers, and for passengers,’ said Christian Bradley, CEO of CarBEV. ‘Our guiding principle is MiniMax (Minimum Expense, Maximum Comfort) because sustainability should never come at the cost of comfort or affordability. With partners like AngCars, we’re building a transport future where cleaner mobility also means better livelihoods and stronger communities.’

Taiwan Expo 2025: Taiwan brings spirit of innovation to the Philippines

To highlight Taiwan’s commitment to creating solutions that improve lives while setting high standards of quality, the dynamic island nation held the ‘Taiwan Expo 2025,’ which ran from September 17 until September 19, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The event reinforced the Taiwan-Philippines partnership, which is ‘an invitation to connect, to collaborate, and to create, and to work hand-in-hand not only to build on past successes, but to define a better future.’

Simon Wang, the president and CEO of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), said: ‘On behalf of TAITRA, we are proud to bring Taiwan’s spirit of innovation and excellence to the Philippines through the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion. All these products combine smart design, advanced technology, and practicality.’

The Taiwan Excellence Awards, established in 1993 by Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievements of Taiwan’s most innovative products.

Taiwan-RP Common Goal

One of the standout exhibits, the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion displayed innovative products that carried the theme: ‘Inspiring Tomorrow: Solutions for a Brighter Life,’ presenting solutions in smart city, comfortable life, and greener future.

‘Manila is a city full of vitality. We’re delighted to be back to share our latest innovations. And, you know, the Philippines is one of Taiwan’s closest trading partners in ASEAN. With strong growth under the Build Better More program and the Philippines Development Plan 2023 to 2028, Taiwan is sharing what we can offer in ICT, in AI, brain technology, and healthcare, which perfectly match the Philippines’ vision of digital transformation and sustainable development,’ shared Wang.

For over 30 years, Wang said, Taiwan Excellence has stood for the best of Taiwan’s innovation.

‘So, from smart lifestyle devices to eco-friendly ICT and safety innovations, the pavilion showcases products that are practical, sustainable, and people-centered,’ added Wang. ‘In closing, Taiwan and the Philippines share a common goal, which are building smarter, greener, and healthier communities.’

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray hosted a meet and greet, and a live autograph signing session to fans and visitors of the pavilion, expressing her enthusiasm: ‘It is such an honor to be here today at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion. Witnessing these innovative solutions from Taiwan inspires me in looking forward to a better tomorrow. I hope that Filipinos will seize every opportunity that’s available to them here at the pavilion, and that we all take home the empowering spirit from seeing a brighter future together as Taiwan and the Philippines.’

Key Brands

Key representatives of leading Taiwanese brands gave product presentations: Jacqueline Hsiao – Vinxper Life; George Pascua – Team Group; Joseph Aquino – Zyxel Networks; and Charge Lu – Hepty.

Vinxper combines the French word for wine, ‘Vin,’ and the English word ‘Expert,’ signifying its expertise in wine accessories. In 2024, it launched its first product – Vinxper Expert – The World’s 4th Generation Adjustable Electric Wine Aerator. ‘Through the new exclusive patented aeration technology, it is the first to offer precise and customizable wine decanting effects ranging from 0 to 240 minutes (Suitable for 99% of young wines aged 3 to 7 years), along with TYPE-C Charging and Water-Resistant Design,’ its site says.

Team Group Inc. is a company that ‘offers a wide range of memory, memory cards, USB flash drives, solid state drives, peripherals, cell phone accessories and industrial products to meet the needs of consumers in different fields.’

Zyxel Networks, meanwhile, is a leading provider of secure, AI-powered cloud networking solutions for SMBs and the enterprise edge, ensuring seamless connectivity and robust security.

Hepty aerosol fire extinguisher, on the other hand, is a company specializing in portable handheld aerosol firefighting technology that produces high-quality, effective and eco-friendly aerosol fire extinguishers.

Partners in a High-Tech Ecosystem

Josephine Shun, the director of the Economic Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office of the Philippines (TECO), delivered a speech about Taiwan’s initiatives to improve everyday living for everyone:

‘In 2024, our bilateral trade reached 6.7 billion US dollars. And from January to August this year, we have already recorded nearly 4.6 billion US dollars. For the Philippines, Taiwan is in the top 10 trading partners.

‘And for Taiwan, the Philippines is one of our most vital partners in ASEAN. Behind this number is a deeper story of industry scenario. Our top trading item is integrated circuit, IC.

‘Showing that Taiwan and the Philippines are not just buyers and sellers, but partners in the same high-tech ecosystem. Taiwan’s leadership in IC design and manufacturing, together with Philippines’ strength in assembly, testing, and electronic manufacturing services, form a highly resilient supply chain for the region.

‘Here at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion, you will see this spirit in action. Taiwan’s strength in innovation, high quality, and agent manufacturing allow us to transform cutting-edge technologies into real-world solutions.

‘Looking ahead, our opportunities for collaboration are immense. Together, we can build a smarter city powered by IoT and AI, improve quality of life through healthcare and lifestyle reservations, and embrace greener futures through circular economic solutio

9 PHL firms, led by San Miguel Corp., land on Forbes Best Employers list

PHILIPPINE conglomerates San Miguel Corp. (SMC) and Ayala Corp. are among the world’s best employers, according to a list compiled by Forbes magazine.

Of the nine Philippine firms that made it to this year’s edition of Forbes’ World Best Employers, only SMC landed in the top 50. The diversified conglomerate was ranked 42nd.

The eight other top Philippine employers are Ayala (139th), Metrobank (154th), Land Bank of the Philippines (187th), LT Group Inc. (421st), Century Pacific Food Inc. (453rd), Jollibee Foods Corp. (455th), BDO Unibank Inc. (585th) and Cebu Pacific (770th).

To determine the list, Forbes said it partnered with market research firm Statista to survey more than 300,000 employees in over 50 countries.

‘The surveys, which were conducted online, were independent of any corporations so that participants could remain anonymous. Survey respondents were asked where they worked via an open-ended question with an autofill option, and corporations were eligible for this ranking if they employed more than 1,000 people and operated globally.’

The participants noted how likely they were to recommend their employer to family and friends, and rated the company on such criteria as salary, career advancement opportunities, work-life balance and company reputation.

‘Survey respondents could also evaluate former employers (within the past two years) and companies they knew through their own industry knowledge and through friends and family who worked there.’

The responses were then tallied and put through a scoring system that included data from the previous three years, with heavier weight given to the more recent data and to the evaluations from current employees.

‘The corporations that earned the highest scores made our final ranking. And while the number of honorees per country varied based on the population and qualifying companies in each area, ultimately 900 companies made our list of the World’s Best Employers 2025,’ Forbes said.