Over a hundred entrepreneurs across Bukidnon leveled up their digital skills through Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered learning sessions led by PLDT and Smart during the MSME Day, organized by PLDT Enterprise, in partnership with the Bukidnon Business Community and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Bukidnon.

The session introduced micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) owners to practical ways AI can transform their content creation and boost their digital presence, as PLDT and Smart showcased tools such as ChatGPT, Canva, and CapCut to demonstrate how MSMEs with limited time and resources can efficiently produce promotional materials and manage their digital marketing needs.

“Here in Bukidnon, MSMEs are the lifeblood of our local economy. They not only provide jobs, but also preserve our culture, drive innovation, and build sustainable communities,” shared DTI Bukidnon Provincial Director Famelah Racquel D. Villanueva. “We do recognize the challenges they face - limited access to financing, modern equipment, markets, and digital skills. These challenges cannot be overcome by the government alone. That’s why we truly value programs like this, where partners like PLDT and Smart come in to support and empower our local entrepreneurs,” she added.

In 2024, PLDT and Smart supported DTI Bukidnon's MSME Summit with learning sessions on TikTok Shop and digital payments through Maya. The telcos also trained participants under DTI’s Kapatid Mentor Me program on e-commerce and video content creation.

These initiatives reflect the PLDT group's commitment to help achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by equipping local entrepreneurs with digital tools that help improve productivity and income. It also supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, by promoting inclusive access to technology that fuels innovation and builds resilient business communities.