More than a hundred micro-, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) owners and entrepreneurs from across Palawan gathered in Puerto Princesa City to learn how digital technologies can help strengthen and grow their businesses during MSME Day Palawan.
Led by PLDT and Smart through PLDT Enterprise and the PLDT Group’s #KonektedForLivelihoods advocacy, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the whole-day learning session equipped local entrepreneurs with practical insights on using digital solutions to improve operations, reach more customers, and unlock new business opportunities.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS LEARNED
Participants attended discussions on financial technology, connectivity solutions, short-form video content creation, and artificial intelligence, all aimed at helping MSMEs adapt to an increasingly digital business landscape. Experts from PLDT Enterprise and partner organizations shared real-world applications and tools that entrepreneurs can readily adopt to enhance productivity, customer engagement, and business growth.
The activity underscores the growing importance of digital transformation among provincial enterprises, particularly as businesses seek new ways to remain competitive and resilient in an evolving economy.
CONNECTIVITY: KEY TO BUSINESS GROWTH
“Connectivity is really important for any business, and it has been especially helpful for us,” said Abigail Sontillano, owner of Natureganic Shoppe and one of the participants at MSME Day Palawan. “The internet has really enabled us to grow our business and serve more customers, not just here in Palawan, but also outside of it.”
Sontillano’s shop offers all-natural soap, shampoo bars, and citronella balms and lotions, among other skin care products. She said the internet has connected her with customers who first learn about her products on social media, with many looking for anti-mosquito and anti-bug skin care solutions amid the threat of serious illnesses like dengue.
“In Palawan as well as in other areas, dengue is widespread particularly during the rainy season. It can even be deadly sometimes,” she said. “It’s important that we are able to reach customers who need our products to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
WHO TOOK PART
The event was also attended by representatives from the Provincial Government of Palawan, led by provincial administrator Atty. Jefrie Sahagun, and DTI officials led by provincial director Hazel DP. Salvador. Executives from PLDT and Smart took part as well, along with representatives from partner organizations Maya, mWell, RCBC, Landbank, and Cisco, who shared solutions designed to support the growth and sustainability of MSMEs.
WHY MSME DAY MATTERS
MSME Day Palawan forms part of PLDT Enterprise’s continuing efforts to empower Filipino entrepreneurs through technology and digital skills development. Through initiatives such as MSME Day and the PLDT Group’s #KonektedForLivelihoods program, PLDT and Smart work closely with government agencies, local government units, and industry partners to bring digital learning opportunities closer to communities nationwide.
By helping MSMEs adopt digital solutions, PLDT Enterprise supports the country’s entrepreneurial sector in building more resilient businesses, creating economic opportunities, and contributing to inclusive growth in their communities.