PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. continue to drive digital upskilling among Filipinos by equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in the online marketplace. Through an event organized by PLDT Home under its ‘Fiber Talk’ series, aspiring entrepreneur-residents of Torre de Manila high-rise residence in Ermita, Manila were introduced to digital entrepreneurship under the PLDT Group’s eBizNovation program. 

The half-day training session focused on the essentials of online live selling, providing participants with practical tips and techniques to start and grow their online businesses. Key topics included e-commerce fundamentals, live selling strategies, and internet safety best practices.

“We believe that digital skills are essential for economic growth and empowerment,” said Stephanie Orlino, Stakeholder Management Head of PLDT and Smart. “By providing Filipinos with the necessary training and support, we are enabling them to seize opportunities in the digital economy and create sustainable livelihoods.”

eBizNovation is PLDT and Smart’s program that provides micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) access to technology and upskilling trainings. The telcos have previously partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture, local chambers of commerce, and various e-commerce platforms for this program.

Abbie Ricohermoso, owner of Josefina’s Homemade Food and a successful eBizNovation graduate and one of TikTop Shop’s top sellers for 2023, shared her inspiring journey as a digital entrepreneur. She shared her success story in expanding the market of her mother Josephine’s special delicacy from their hometown in Bicol to a nationwide presence by applying lessons she learned in the eBizNovation trainings and by receiving personalized support from PLDT and Smart to have her business onboarded onto TikTok Shop.

In her talk, Ricohermoso emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to stay ahead in the competitive online landscape. “Online live selling is just a starting point. Entrepreneurs should never stop learning. The main aim is to equip oneself with more and more knowledge and keep up with technology to stay competitive.”

The PLDT Group continues to find ways to promote inclusive technologies that can help boost livelihood opportunities among MSMEs, cooperatives, farmers, and fisherfolk, leaving no one behind. The eBizNovation program also highlights the PLDT Group’s support to the government’s Go Digital Pilipinas Movement, which seeks to uplift the lives of Filipinos through adoption of digital services.