Over 150 MSMEs and eight exhibitors participated in the first leg of the MSME Day event held in Iloilo. These businesses gained valuable knowledge and skills essential for thriving in the digital era.
PLDT Enterprise, in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through its Strengthening Private Enterprise for the Digital Economy (SPEED) Activity, proudly launched its first MSME Day, marking the beginning of a nationwide roadshow dedicated to supporting micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
With July officially declared as the Philippine MSME Month, this latest initiative underscores PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to empowering MSMEs with the tools and knowledge needed for digital transformation and business growth.
Empowering MSMEs through Digital Transformation
The event, held at the Jaro-Mandurriao Ballroom, Courtyard by Marriott, Iloilo Business Park, featured a comprehensive workshop aimed at helping MSMEs discover how technology can drive business success in the digital age. Topics covered that day included access to finance, technology, upskilling, market expansion, internet safety, and AI. Participants also had the opportunity to engage with industry experts, learn practical tips, and network with fellow business owners.
Additionally, MSMEs benefited from the opportunity to easily access essential digital resources for their business. They could inquire about the solutions that fit their needs, gain insights on the basics of growing a business, and acquire products directly through PLDT Enterprise. At the workshop, PLDT Enterprise showcased a wide range of services designed to support MSMEs, including Enterprise Broadband for business-grade fiber internet connectivity, Smart Postpaid for always-on-the-go communication, and Maya for digital payment solutions and lending services. These offerings provide MSMEs with the essential tools to enhance their operational efficiency and drive expansion.
Key highlights of the MSME Day included sessions on making informed financial decisions to help MSMEs manage their resources effectively, presented by Raymond Del Rosario from Maya. Participants also learned about internet safety, security, and the basics of AI for MSMEs, with presentations by Samie Gonzaga and Janille Gultiano from Smart Communications Inc. Experts such as Marianne Tajanlangit-Bebit from IPOPHL and Marie Joni Jocson from LexMeet provided insights on intellectual property, e-commerce success, and the legalities of online selling. Strategies for reaching wider markets and expanding business horizons were discussed by Grace Solana from Multisys and Sophia Teng from 1Export Trade & Services.
Driving Economic Growth through MSME Support
MSMEs play a crucial role in the Philippine economy, contributing significantly to employment and economic growth. By supporting MSMEs, PLDT Enterprise continues to foster a vibrant, thriving business environment that encourages and supports innovation and competitiveness. “Our MSME Day in Iloilo is yet another example of our commitment to support the growth and success of MSMEs across the Philippines,” said Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise. “At PLDT Enterprise, we always put our customers first. Our priority is to help them understand and identify the solutions meant for their business, and we do so by giving them access to learning series and workshops that help them connect with industry leaders and business experts.”
“Initiatives like MSME Day are crucial for empowering local businesses, especially as we take this roadshow to every corner of the Philippines,” said Chet Alviz, Vice President and Head of Enterprise and International Marketing at PLDT Enterprise. “By reaching MSMEs nationwide, we ensure that every business, regardless of location, is equipped with the essential digital tools and resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Our goal is to bridge the digital divide and support the growth and success of MSMEs across the country.”
The event featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group, PLDT Enterprise; Hugo Prado, Deputy Chief of Party, USAID SPEED Activity; Jinky Francisco, SME Business Head for VisMin, PLDT Enterprise; Carlo Calimon, President, StartUp Village; Raymond Del Rosario, Area Business Lead, Maya; Marianne Tajanlangit-Bebit, Intellectual Property Rights Specialist II, IPOPHL; Marie Joni Jocson, COO, LexMeet; Samie Gonzaga, Stakeholder Management Specialist, Smart Communications Inc.; Janille Gultiano, Stakeholder Management Specialist, Smart Communications Inc.; Grace Solana, Head of Enterprise Business, Multisys; Sophia Teng, Sr. Associate, 1Export Trade & Services; and Chet Alviz, Vice President and Head of Enterprise and International Marketing, PLDT Enterprise. The comprehensive program included sessions on digitalizing SMEs, financial management, upskilling, technology, and market expansion. The program culminated in the launch of the PSF Smart Cart, a collaboration with the PLDT-Smart Foundation, led by Esther Santos, President of PLDT-Smart Foundation Inc.
USAID, through its SPEED Activity, collaborated with PLDT Enterprise for its MSME Day to provide a comprehensive initiative to help MSMEs embrace digitalization, enhancing their digital skills and capacity while promoting the use of digital financial services and tools. Together, USAID and PLDT Enterprise aim to amplify the impact of their programs for greater MSME development.
As PLDT Enterprise continues to champion the digital transformation of MSMEs, businesses are encouraged to explore the comprehensive range of solutions designed to enhance their operational efficiency and market reach
