Smart Supports GSMA and ITC ‘Digital PINAS’ Initiative

To help support the digital transformation of small businesses in the country and the creation of a dynamic and competitive digital Philippines, PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications has expressed its commitment to the Digital PINAS initiative, a partnership between the GSMA’s Digital Inclusion program and the International Trade Centre (ITC). GSMA is a global industry organization representing the interests of mobile network operators and the broader mobile industry.

Digital PINAS, launched this week as one of the highlights of the inaugural Digital Nation Summit Manila organized by the GSMA, is envisioned to help equip MSMEs with essential digital skills and tools and help advance policies and regulations that will enable small businesses to benefit from technology and connectivity.

“Working with the GSMA and ITC on Digital PINAS is an opportunity for us in PLDT and Smart to further advance our shared vision of a digitally empowered MSME sector,” according to Stephanie Orlino, head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.

PLDT and Smart have long supported the MSME sector through products and solutions that enable the growth of small businesses through innovation, as well as digital upskilling programs like eBizNovation, which onboards micro-entrepreneurs to online selling platforms, enabling them to successfully participate in the global digital economy.

“More than half of Filipinos are employed by MSMEs and more than 99% of the business enterprises operating in the country are MSMEs. Assisting this sector will positively impact the lives of millions of Filipinos, creating jobs, boosting incomes, and ultimately reducing poverty. This is at the core of our mission in PLDT and Smart to inspire Filipino MSMEs with innovations that will help accelerate their digital transformation,” added Orlino.

PLDT and Smart's commitment to the digital inclusion of Filipino MSMEs underscores the Group’s drive to help achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.