Insider Spotlight
The company recently secured Gallup’s highest workplace honor, reinforcing its position not just as a fast-food giant but as a people-first organization competing on the world stage. Notably, Jollibee remains the only Philippine-based company to ever receive the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award—highlighting how a Filipino brand can match global best practices in employee engagement.
Why it matters
Strong workplace culture is increasingly tied to execution and growth, particularly for companies expanding across markets. Jollibee’s recognition signals that talent strategy—not just product or pricing—can be a long-term differentiator.
What they’re saying
“Being recognized by Gallup at this level affirms the kind of workplace we are building at the Jollibee Group—one where our people can grow, thrive, and do their best work every day. It also shows that a Filipino company can stand alongside the world’s best workplaces,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, global president and CEO, Jollibee Group.
“As we continue to expand globally, we remain committed to building a culture that enables our teams and partners to find joy in their work, succeed together, and bring the joy of our brands to more communities around the world,” he added.
In a company statement, Jollibee emphasized that the recognition reflects its ongoing investment in its “Choose Joy!” employer value proposition, which centers on purpose-driven work, leadership support, and career growth.
By the numbers
The group also clinched the Gallup Engagement Award for the fifth consecutive year—an indicator of consistency in maintaining high employee engagement across operations.
Zoom in
“At the Jollibee Group, engagement is something we build intentionally every day through strong leadership, continuous listening, and meaningful people programs,” said Arsenio Sabado, global chief Human Resources officer of the Jollibee Group.
At the heart of Choose Joy is its push to create an environment where employees feel purpose, grow their careers, and experience belonging—principles the company says are embedded into its operating model.
The other side
The recognition adds to a growing list of global and regional honors for Jollibee, including inclusion in Forbes’ World’s Best Employers, TIME’s World’s Best Companies, and Employer of the Year by the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP).
The bottom line
As it expands its global footprint, Jollibee said it will continue strengthening its people-first culture—ensuring engagement, leadership, and meaningful work remain central to its strategy of delivering long-term growth and spreading joy through its brands worldwide. ---Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma