Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is empowering over a million sari-sari store owners nationwide through the “Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo” Sari-Sari Store Advancement Program.
The program aims to equip micro-retailers with the knowledge and tools needed for digital transformation, financial literacy, and sustainable business practices.
“The sari-sari stores have been our key partner since day one, particularly in Smart electronic load distribution, and we are proud to support and launch initiatives that can help grow and benefit this channel,” said Smart vice president and head of channel management Jac Bocalan.
Through a series of free webinars and regional workshops, Smart and DTI will provide sari-sari store owners with practical tips on expanding their businesses using digital solutions, including Smart’s e-load service.
“The Sari-Sari Store Advancement Program, entitled Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo, adopts a multifaceted approach to uplift our micro retailers, focusing on digital transformation, financial literacy, sustainable business practices, and consumer protection. Our goal is clear: to make our sari-sari stores more resilient, innovative, and competitive in the digital economy,” said Trade undersecretary Jose Edgardo G. Sunico.
The program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), specifically SDG 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure.
