Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc., a food company listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange, is cooking up more than just great food—it is serving up opportunities, too.
The popular pizza said teamed up with the Quezon City government in May to hire senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in its company-owned restaurants. Quezon City is the fifth city to join Shakey’s growing inclusive hiring initiative.
“At heart of it all, we are a people business, and that means cultivating an organization where diverse talents and abilities are not only valued but also harnessed, such that everyone has a chance to contribute,” said Shakey’s president and chief executive officer Vic Gregorio in a statement.
“With inclusive hiring and Love ‘Em Down, we aspire to make a meaningful difference in their lives and hopefully extend this impact to their families. Our hope is that these efforts will inspire other companies to follow suit in promoting a more inclusive society,” he added.
The partnership is part of Shakey’s bigger mission to create real, positive change through its “Love ‘Em Down” program. In partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, Inc. (DSAPI), Shakey’s recently held its first “Pizza and Smiles” event—a fun, hands-on pizza-making session with 45 kids with Down Syndrome.
And to wrap up World Down Syndrome Day, Shakey’s joined DSAPI’s Happy Walk, where employees, families, and DSAPI members enjoyed a day of games, performances, and, of course, pizza.
As Shakey’s celebrates its 50th year, it’s proving that a successful business can—and should—make the world better. Whether it’s offering meaningful jobs or sharing slices with new friends, SPAVI is showing that inclusion, joy, and great food go hand in hand.
And that’s something worth cheering–and toasting a slice–for.
