For 53-year-old Rufino Cognayo, Jr., resilience and determination have paved the way for a new chapter in his life. A former brokerage employee in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Cognayo faced tremendous challenges after losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic and battling cancer. Yet, he refused to give up, finding hope in an unexpected opportunity—becoming a prepaid load reseller with Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) and Telepreneur Corp. (TPC).
With the support of Smart and TPC, Cognayo rebuilt his livelihood by integrating prepaid load sales into his general merchandise store. Encouraged by a friend to activate a retailer SIM, he soon realized the potential of providing prepaid load to his community. His business flourished, driven by the demand for Smart and TNT promos that offer unlimited calls and data, crucial for work, entertainment, and everyday transactions.
As part of its mission to empower small entrepreneurs, Smart continues to expand its mobile network, covering 97% of the Philippine population with 4G/LTE and 5G connectivity. This initiative not only enhances digital inclusion but also creates sustainable livelihood opportunities for individuals like Cognayo.
“Rufino’s journey is an inspiring example of how digital connectivity can transform lives. We remain committed to making our prepaid load products and services more accessible while helping our resellers gain additional income opportunities,” shared Christian So, Assistant Vice President and OIC-Head of National Key Accounts at Smart.
Cognayo’s hard work and perseverance were further rewarded when he won a brand-new car in a raffle draw organized by TPC and Smart. Initially skeptical, he admitted thinking it was a scam until TPC confirmed his win. “I didn’t believe it at first because scams are everywhere, but thankfully, TPC proved that I won a legit raffle,” he said with a laugh.
Smart and TPC’s initiatives align with PLDT and Smart’s broader commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering economic opportunities, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Through connectivity and entrepreneurship, more Filipinos are finding new ways to thrive in the digital economy.
