PLDT, Smart open digital doors for Bukidnon PWDs through Digital Business Training

In a world where digital skills can open doors to opportunities, PLDT and Smart are ensuring a level playing field for all Filipinos, especially persons with disabilities. In Bukidnon, PWDs recently gained the confidence, tools, and skills to build their own livelihood, proving that inclusion and innovation can truly change lives.

PLDT and Smart’s Digital Business Basics Training equipped participants with practical digital and entrepreneurial skills, covering topics such as Financial Literacy, Basic Android Accessibility, General Virtual Assistance, Social Media Management and Marketing, as well as Graphics and Video Creation for Brand Marketing—all aimed at enhancing their access to livelihood opportunities.

For 41-year-old entrepreneur Maribeth Doresa who sells kakanin to support her family, the training opened new possibilities. “I’m very thankful for this training because it will help me improve my kakanin business and better support my family,” Doresa shared. “As a PWD, I always look for ways to learn and grow. Through this training, I have learned how to manage my business, set the right prices, and believe that even if I can’t walk, I can still do everything else.” 

Mercy Balendez, a staff of the local government unit of Manolo Fortich, also shared how the training was both empowering and inspiring. “I have learned so much about technology and business management – how to start a business properly, manage capitalization, and plan for our goals. Having a physical impairment myself, what inspired me most was seeing visually-impaired trainees confidently using computers and mobile devices—proving that disability is not a barrier to learning,” Balendez said. 

“I realized that PWDs are not left behind—we are all equal and capable,” she added.   

Organized in partnership with Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration, and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired (ATRIEV), NORFIL Foundation, and the Bukidnon Provincial Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PPDAO), the Bukidnon DBBT is part of PLDT and Smart’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Advocacy through Technology (IDEATe) program.

PLDT and Smart’s IDEATe initiatives highlight the PLDT Group’s steadfast commitment to advancing digital inclusion and supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities. Through IDEATe, the companies continue to empower persons with disabilities by promoting their social, economic, and digital participation in today’s connected society.