PLDT and Smart, in partnership with Filipina Homebased Moms (FHMoms), have culminated the first run of their digital upskilling program for mothers in need, including single mothers, mothers with physical or psychosocial disabilities and those taking care of family with disabilities.

“As part of PLDT and Smart’s longstanding commitment to help improve the quality of life of Filipinos through technology, we ensure that all sectors are provided with access to technology and skills to participate in the digital and knowledge economy,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart.  

Under the PLDT Group’s IDEATe (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Advocacy through Technology) program, the first batch of scholars were recently recognized in an online graduation ceremony. The scholars underwent a five-week learning course on digital skills to help prepare them for remote tech-enabled jobs, and connect them to potential employers through FHMoms’ network.  

Working with non-profit organizations Life Haven Center for Independent Living (Life Haven) and Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration, and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired (ATRIEV), PLDT and Smart also provided scholars with learning tools and connectivity support to assist them in finishing the program.  

Carolina Lorida, one of the PLDT and Smart scholars, and who also earned the Highest Total Score in All Activities Award for the General Virtual Assistance course, expressed her gratitude to the program partners during the ceremony.

“I am a mother of a child with a disability. I would like to express my gratitude to PLDT and Smart for this opportunity, also made possible by Life Haven. I am fortunate enough to have been chosen as one of the scholars for this program. I would also like to thank all the coaches from FHMoms for helping me and my fellow graduates finish the course. This certificate will always be a reminder of all my hard work and commitment to get to where I am now,” shared Carolina.

“Because of this program, we have been given a chance to prove that learning may continue even after a certain age, we just have to believe in ourselves. Congratulations again to all of us, my fellow graduates,” Carolina added.

Since 2017, PLDT and Smart have been promoting digital inclusion of underserved communities, through the upskilling of senior citizens, farmers and fisherfolk, indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities. IDEATe programs aim to contribute to the achievement of UNSDG #1: No Poverty, #8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and UNSDG #10: Reduced Inequalities by empowering and promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all, including persons with disabilities.