PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) recently joined hands with Shopee Philippines to train Talavera, Nueva Ecija-based Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on technopreneurship.

The learning caravan focused on leveraging on technology for business, the “Pilipinas, Aahon at Babangon: Ace your E-Commerce Game!” seminar aims to help participating MSMEs elevate their entrepreneurial skills by utilizing available digital tools.

“PLDT and Smart recognize the vital role of MSMEs in nation building and post-pandemic economic recovery, and the significance of technology in advancing this goal. This is why we prioritize opportunities that bring technology closer to MSMEs, made possible by our partnerships with like-minded organizations such as Shopee Philippines, and the Talavera LGU,” said Cathy Yang, First Vice President and Group Head of Corporate Communications at PLDT and Smart.

Topics discussed during the one-day session held at the Mayor’s Hall in Talavera, Nueva Ecija included mobile photography and social media skills and using e-commerce platforms like Shopee to expand market reach.

This learning caravan also aims to enable participants to level up their skills, specifically in online content generation and selling, to help them grow their businesses through accessible and sustainable communication technologies.

“Our fellow cooperatives have encouraged us to explore online platforms, including Shopee, and we did. We are currently learning more ways to post the content of our products. The discussion on mobile photography really touched areas we need to improve on for our business. Stable and reliable connectivity has also supported our business objectives,” said Isabel Panadera Pablo, one of the MSME attendees.

“My business has grown since it started in 2020, all thanks to the digital tools available, like internet connectivity and e-commerce platforms, so we can reach customers right from the comfort of our homes. Attending this session with PLDT, Smart, and Shopee can help MSMEs like us reach more customers online,” shared Jamia Caparas, owner of Macramé Dreams by Jamia, another seminar attendee.

Two more learning caravans will be rolled out by PLDT and Smart in Visayas and Mindanao.

PLDT and Smart underscore the value of uplifting the MSME sector through technology, as fundamental to building a smarter and more resilient Philippines to help mitigate economic risks due to the pandemic. This is also aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (UN SDG) #8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.