The Philippines’ leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continue to empower micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Tacloban City through digital training and ramped-up network expansion.
“As we remain committed to providing the best customer experience for our subscribers, including local businesses, our network enhancements in Tacloban City provide MSMEs opportunities for growth, allowing them to stay connected and reach more clients outside of the region,” said Debbie M. Hu, FVP and Wireless Network Head at Smart.
Being one of the most progressive cities in Eastern Visayas, Tacloban City’s over 8,000 MSMEs from various industries play a vital role in development. The city government strives to provide training, resources, and access to technology and innovation to its local MSMEs, helping them explore the opportunities brought about by digitalization.
Marjorie Go, an online seller from Barangay 104 (Salvacion) in Tacloban City, is among the local entrepreneurs benefiting from the Group’s network enhancements. Go started to sell beauty products online in 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Online selling has been very convenient for me, especially during the pandemic. It has allowed me to earn while staying at home and keeping myself and family safe,” she shared.
In four years, she was able to grow her online business and continued to sell via e-commerce platforms. One of her priorities has always been to effectively promote their products online to widen their customer base.
“A fast and reliable network is crucial in our business to help us seamlessly connect with our clients at any time and from any location. It has been essential in boosting the promotion of our products online, allowing us to attract more customers nationwide,” she said. “It is great to know that Smart is expanding its network in our city to reach and enable more local businesses in Tacloban,” Go added.
Go also joined PLDT and Smart’s recent eBizNovation BuyLocal Bazaar held in Tacloban City, which is a digital upskilling initiative designed to provide MSMEs with essential information on adopting digital tools to boost their productivity and expand their market reach by selling online. The training was conducted in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Leyte Province, the City Government of Tacloban, and TikTok Shop Philippines.
The PLDT Group’s investments in their network infrastructure and innovative products and services highlight their commitment to providing all Filipinos with access to technology and connectivity. These are also aligned with the Group’s efforts to help the country attain the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and reinforce the Group’s support for the Government’s overall digitalization thrust.
