WINNING | PLDT scales digital inclusion through outreach

Insider Spotlight

• PLDT Group is using digital platforms and grassroots programs to widen access to technology across sectors
• Community-focused initiatives supporting farmers, MSMEs, students, and overseas Filipinos gained regional recognition
• The company’s strategy reflects a broader push to link connectivity with economic participation and digital safety
  
  
  

PLDT Group is deepening its push for digital inclusion by pairing connectivity services with community-based programs aimed at farmers, entrepreneurs, students, and overseas Filipinos. 

The company’s latest initiatives underscore how telecom firms are increasingly positioning themselves as enablers of economic participation and digital resilience, especially in underserved communities.

Why it matters

The recognition comes as digital access becomes more closely tied to livelihood opportunities, education, and financial participation across Southeast Asia. 

At this year’s Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, several PLDT Group initiatives were honored for community engagement, corporate social responsibility, and digital innovation.

Among the standout programs was TINBO (Tindahan ni Bossing), powered by PLDT Global, which received a Gold Stevie®. 

The platform serves as a one-stop digital marketplace that allows Filipinos abroad to access services and products that help them stay connected with families in the Philippines.

The big picture

PLDT’s broader strategy centers on combining connectivity with practical digital adoption programs.

Silver Stevie® recognitions went to the Digital Farmers Program and eBizNovation, both designed to strengthen digital capabilities among agricultural communities and micro, small, and medium enterprises. 

Other recognized initiatives included #LearnSmart, which supports technology-enabled education access, and #BeCyberSmart, a campaign promoting safer online engagement as digital participation expands nationwide.

Meanwhile, Bronze Stevie® awards highlighted programs focused on overseas Filipino engagement and corporate collaboration, including Hong Kong Fest 2025 and the Asia Corporate Collaboration Conference 2025.

Thought leadership 

Albert V. Villa-Real, president and CEO of PLDT Global, received a Bronze Stevie® for thought leadership tied to advancing partnerships and digital inclusion initiatives across markets serving overseas Filipinos.

What’s next

As digital economies expand across Asia-Pacific, companies are increasingly being evaluated not only on infrastructure scale, but also on how effectively they translate connectivity into inclusive growth and community impact. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma