After Typhoon Kristine tore through Naga City in 2024, many small business owners, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), were left struggling to recover. Among them were members of the Naga City PWD Vendors Association, who, despite the odds, found a path to resilience through a combination of financial support and digital skills.
As graduates of ATRIEV's Digital Business Basics Training (DBBT), they had learned to leverage technology and online tools to promote and manage their businesses. PLDT and Smart augmented the training with a livelihood grant enabling them to put their skills to work, turning this seed money into thriving ventures.
After Typhoon Kristine tore through Naga City in 2024, many were left struggling to recover, including members of the Naga City PWD Vendors Association. Despite the odds, these vendors found a way to overcome challenges—thanks to their grit, newfound digital skills and some financial help.
The recent PWD Vendors Valentine’s Bazaar held in Naga City was a showcase of the group's resilience and resourcefulness. The success of the event was a source of pride for Cheryl Fernandez, Naga Vendors Association president.
“We are deeply grateful to PLDT, Smart and ATRIEV for their unwavering support in making this initiative possible. For many grantees, the grant was more than just financial assistance—it was a lifeline that helped them rebuild and sustain their livelihoods. This bazaar became more than a marketplace. It was a platform for vendors to recover, grow, and engage with a wider community. Your contributions continue to uplift and empower PWD entrepreneurs in Naga City.”
Among them were Richard and Nelma Palmiano, who sold handcrafted bouquets and custom shirts. By the end of the bazaar, they managed to grow their initial capital by at least 70%.
For fellow vendor Arlene Plazo Belmonte, the grant became the foundation for a blooming venture. She crafted chocolate and satin flower bouquets, complemented by LED-lit butterfly arrangements, alongside best-selling fresh sunflowers and heart-shaped balloons. By the end of the week, she had similarly grown her seed money by 35%.
The event was a reflection of how technology and support can empower marginalized communities. “We are proud to stand with the Naga Vendors Association in their journey toward recovery and growth. Through digital skills and connectivity, we are helping persons with disabilities strengthen their businesses and become more resilient,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, Head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.
Initiatives to empower persons with disabilities and help them uplift their livelihoods through technology form part of PLDT Group's IDEATE program or Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Advocacy through Technology, which is aligned with the group’s commitment to help the country attain UNSDG No. 10 on reducing inequality by empowering and promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all, including persons with disabilities.
