PLDT, Smart, DTI Misamis Oriental champion MSME and youth entrepreneurship

PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recently equipped over a hundred micro, small and medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and young entrepreneurs with digital skills and online solutions during the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Misamis Oriental’s MSME One Expo 2024, a three-day event designed to empower and showcase enterprises in the province.

In collaboration with TikTok Philippines, PLDT Enterprise and Maya Philippines, the initiative aims to accelerate the digital transformation of business owners in Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental, by enhancing their skills in content creation and amplifying their presence in e-commerce platforms like TikTok Shop.

“We thank our incredible partners PLDT, Smart, and Maya, for your unwavering support and invaluable contributions to make this year’s expo, themed “Breaking Down Borders and Expanding Reach: From MisOr to the World, a resounding success. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future for our MSMEs,” said Provincial Director Jesusa Abear, DTI Misamis Oriental.

Sakura Kawamata, a marketing officer for banana vinegar producer Mr. Clav, appreciated the importance of using the online platform TikTok Shop and digital payment solutions like Maya as these create convenience for customers. 

Mr. Clav converts discarded bananas into vinegar to help support local farmers and reduce agricultural waste. Kawamata said, “We have faced challenges in marketing our products since many people are used to different vinegars. With this training, I have learned how live streaming on online platforms and creating better content can help us boost our visibility online.”

Balingasag Negosyo Center Manager Jaybom Dansal shared that while MSMEs excel in creating products, many struggle with effective promotion. “Some have started selling, but others are still catching up. Crafting engaging content requires practice, so our goal is to educate all our MSMEs on maximizing their online presence,” he said.

The online entrepreneurship training is part of PLDT and Smart’s eBizNovation program that aims to leverage digital technologies to develop and improve the lives and livelihood of communities across the country. 

These efforts form part of the group’s commitment to support the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.