As Philippine agriculture embraces innovation, PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) bring technology closer to Filipino farmers through the Digital Farmers Program (DFP). 

Mhar Baclay, a 45-year-old rice farmer from Davao del Sur, is one of the trainees who underwent the DFP 101 training program in Bansalan, Davao del Sur. Baclay shared that he has learned so much about topics like smartphone 101 which has significantly improved how he takes care of his crops.

“DFP was really a game-changer for me. I now understand that smartphones can increase our productivity and efficiency. We are hopeful that the introduction of agricultural and weather applications and other factors will positively impact our yield.”

In partnership with the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI), PLDT and Smart continue to expand their reach in empowering the country's farming community. DFP is a program designed to empower farmers by providing them access to digital tools and mobile technologies for #SustainableAgriculture and #InclusiveGrowth.

“Thank you so much, PLDT and Smart and DA-ATI Davao Region, for taking us with you on this journey towards digitalization,” he added.

This initiative underscores PLDT and Smart's commitment to bridge the digital divide. The program also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), particularly UNSDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.