PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. continue to empower small business owners all over the Philippines through various initiatives and partnerships under its eBizNovation program.
“Through eBizNovation, we provide access to technology and upskilling trainings for MSMEs, farmers, and cooperatives and help them onboard to e-commerce platforms, to enhance their market and financial access and help them grow their businesses and income. This is part of PLDT and Smart's commitment toward nation-building,” said PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management Head Stephanie Orlino.
Together with Maya, the group extended support to the 1st Biñan City Sari-Sari Store Congress organized by the city government and the Department of Trade and Industry Region 4A, held recently at Alonte Sports Arena. The event aimed to help sari-sari store owners in Biñan City grow their businesses through digital innovations, connectivity, financial solutions, and enhanced collaboration with suppliers and various stakeholders.
During the opening of the event, representatives from PLDT Enterprise SMBiz and Smart shared with the attendees how to #BeCyberSmart and keep their personal and business transactions online safe and secure. The participants also learned about the state of Philippine MSMEs, which make up over 99% of businesses operating in the country and is considered the backbone of the nation's economy.
Among those who participated in the Biñan City Sari-Sari Store Congress were Leah and Anthony Hipolito, owners of Yanie's Bakeshop in Brgy. Sto Tomas. Apart from having a brick-and-mortar store, the husband- and-wife team also accepts orders through chat apps and delivers goods to their customers. Customers of both PLDT and Smart, the Hipolito couple shared that online orders make transactions more convenient for them and their buyers. Being online also helps them widen their store’s reach and increase their sales.
To further raise awareness on its eBizNovation program and how MSMEs can have wider market access through technology, PLDT and Smart also joined the Sustainable MSME Caravan organized by the UN Global Compact Network Philippines. Held recently at SM City Baguio, the event enabled PLDT and Smart representatives to share valuable insights on increasing the market access of MSMEs, through digitalization.
PLDT and Smart’s eBizNovation program for MSMEs, farmers, and cooperatives is also aligned with the group’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly No. 1: No Poverty; and No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
