This initiative promotes digital literacy, strengthens cybersecurity awareness, and fosters financial inclusion, equipping Filipino entrepreneurs with the essential tools and knowledge to succeed in today’s fast-evolving digital economy.
“We believe that empowering Filipino MSMEs with the right digital tools and knowledge is key to building resilient communities,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and head of stakeholder engagement at PLDT and Smart.
Empowering MSMEs nationwide
The eBizNovation program supports the government’s digitalization goals by enabling MSMEs—considered the backbone of the Philippine economy. More than 33,000 MSMEs nationwide have been trained to date, thanks to partnerships with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), local governments, and various private-sector stakeholders.
Community-based sessions are at the core of eBizNovation. In Tanay, Rizal, PLDT Enterprise introduced tools that help local entrepreneurs boost productivity and secure customer communications. In San Pedro, Laguna, sari-sari store owners participated in the “Let’s Go & Grow” convention, where digital tools and scam prevention were top priorities.
In Angeles City, Pampanga, 50 MSMEs explored emerging technologies such as AI and cybersecurity during the PLDT Enterprise SMBiz event. Meanwhile, in Central Luzon, the program featured cybersecurity sessions during DTI Region 3’s 2025 Franchising and Financing Forum.
eBizNovation also reached MSMEs in Ormoc City, Maasin City, and Sogod, Leyte, through the Tech Connect series, with over 100 entrepreneurs in the Visayas benefiting. The initiative will also support upcoming MSME Day and Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Summit activities in Mindanao.
Digital tools for direct sellers
Avon Philippines, the country’s leading direct-selling company, also partnered with eBizNovation. Sales representatives across the country received training on social media content, smartphone photography, and digital safety.
Elizabeth Alave, an Avon sales leader for 15 years, noted that people can sometimes be easily deceived by text messages, especially when money is involved, which is why it’s commendable that PLDT and Smart are raising awareness about scams.
Toward inclusive economic growth
eBizNovation aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)—and advances the government’s drive to make MSMEs competitive, digitally capable, and resilient. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
