McDonald’s Philippines wins Employer of the Year award

McDonald’s Philippines has been named Employer of the Year at the 2025 People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) Awards, earning top honors for its exceptional people management and business practices.

The award ceremony, held at the NUSTAR Resort & Casino in Cebu City during the PMAP Annual Conference from 22 to 24 October, saw the quick service restaurant (QSR) giant best several of the country’s most respected corporations. PMAP cited McDonald’s as a purpose-driven organization that places its people-first principles and values at the heart of its operations. The company was also conferred Exemplar Status for the National Capital Region.

McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO Kenneth Yang accepted the award on behalf of the company. “This recognition fuels our commitment to our purpose: lighting the way to brighter opportunities for our people and the communities we serve,” Yang said. “Though I accepted the award onstage, the honor truly belongs to close to 1 million Filipinos who have become and are part of the McFamily.”

Yang underscored the company’s presence in the Southeast Asian market. “McDonald’s Philippines is part of a world-class brand, proudly rooted in the Filipino spirit. Today, we stand as the largest market in Southeast Asia, and the 10th largest globally. Our scale is more than a number—it’s a responsibility. It empowers us to serve communities, create opportunities, and support nation building,” he added.

McDonald’s Philippines currently operates in nearly every province nationwide, with each new store creating 80 to 100 jobs, reflecting its commitment to inclusive hiring and sustained economic activity. Since Chairman and Founder Dr. George T. Yang opened the first store in 1981, the company has maintained direct hiring and non-contractual employment practices, setting it apart within the fast-food industry.

Earlier this year, Dr. Yang and Kenneth Yang secured a 20-year license renewal to operate McDonald’s in the Philippines—an endorsement of their leadership and stewardship of the global brand. The renewal comes amid accelerated nationwide expansion, further cementing McDonald’s position as a major employer and growth driver in the Philippine QSR sector.