From sari-sari to socmed PLDT, Smart empower MSMEs to thrive in digital marketplace

MANILA, Philippines — In a world where likes, shares and digital storefronts can make or break a business, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. are helping Filipino entrepreneurs keep up – and level up.

Through their flagship program eBizNovation, the PLDT Group has empowered over 32,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country with digital skills, e-commerce tools, and online safety training. The mission: help local businesses not just survive, but thrive in today’s fast-moving, tech-driven economy.

Most recently, more than 250 MSMEs joined eBizNovation activities at the Shop and Ship Caravan in Pasay, and the Power Up MSME Summer Fair in Subic, Cebu, Bacolod, Moalboal and Davao. At these events, business owners learned how to boost their online presence using tools like Canva, manage logistics with J&T Express, and tap into the power of platforms like TikTok Shop Philippines.

“MSMEs are the backbone of our economy,” said Stephanie Orlino, AVP and head of stakeholder engagement at PLDT and Smart. “Through eBizNovation, we’re giving entrepreneurs the tools to tell their stories online, reach more customers, and protect their businesses in the digital world.”

Workshops included everything from AI-powered marketing strategies to e-commerce storefront optimization – and even crash courses in digital safety, so MSMEs can grow with confidence.

eBizNovation is part of PLDT and Smart’s wider push to create real, measurable impact at the grassroots level. By partnering with government agencies, chambers of commerce, and top digital platforms, the program supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).