The local coconut industry contributes significantly to the Philippines' export earnings, but coconut farmers remain to be among the country's poorest of the poor. To help improve the lives of coconut farmers by upskilling and enabling them to spot digital threats, PLDT and Smart supported the inaugural Coconut Philippines Trade Fair (CTF) 2025, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and the Coconut Farmers Industry and Development Plan (CFIDP).
As part of their award-winning eBizNovation program, the PLDT Group led a “Maging CyberSmart Against Online Scams” session during the event, equipping the participating micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the coconut sector with practical cybersecurity knowledge to help protect their businesses from online threats. This initiative reflects PLDT and Smart’s active support for the national government’s efforts to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen the resilience of Filipino entrepreneurs in an increasingly connected world. The support is also aligned with the drive of PLDT’s B2B arm PLDT Enterprise to support the digitalization of businesses, particularly MSMEs.
“Through our eBizNovation program and other digital inclusion initiatives, PLDT and Smart continue to work closely with government agencies to advance technology adoption that empowers Filipino MSMEs and farming communities,” said Jose Roberto A. Alampay, First Vice President and Head of Public Engagement and Corporate Communications at PLDT and Smart. “By promoting cybersecurity awareness and responsible digital practices, we help ensure that every entrepreneur can participate safely and confidently in the country’s digital economy.”
The trade fair also featured DTI’s “Asenso Talks sa CTF,” a venue for MSMEs, coconut farmers, and government partners to exchange insights on digital innovation, industry trends and sustainable livelihood opportunities. These collaborations support shared goals of expanding economic participation and accelerating inclusive growth across the MSME and agricultural sectors.
This initiative also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, by promoting secure digital environments. By strengthening digital capabilities and cybersecurity awareness among MSMEs, PLDT and Smart continue to advance the government’s vision for a digitally empowered, secure, and sustainable Philippines — ensuring that local enterprises remain resilient and competitive in today’s evolving digital landscape.
