PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. recently partnered with Teach for the Philippines (TFP) to bring the #BeCyberSmart program to Taguanao Elementary School, guiding young learners toward responsible and mindful online behavior.
Students participated in an interactive storytelling session led by TFP volunteers, featuring Ang Paglalakbay ni Tala (The Adventures of Tala), a PLDT Group original storybook co-developed with Kids for Kids PH and the Positive Youth Development Network, and co-launched with the Department of Justice. The story follows Tala, a nine-year-old girl exploring the metaverse while learning about her rights and potential online dangers. PLDT and Smart also donated copies to help teachers reinforce digital safety lessons in the classroom.
“When children understand the world they’re growing up in—online and offline—they learn to protect themselves,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart. “Being cybersmart is more than just safety—it’s about empowering kids with the confidence to explore and act wisely in today’s digital world.”
The program also supported school nutrition initiatives through the donation of #PlantSmart kits, which include vegetable seeds, organic fertilizer, and loam soil, to bolster the school’s “Gulayan sa Paaralan” program. “The plant kits will help our gulayan grow more vegetable varieties for our feeding program, and parents can start home gardens,” shared Principal Jobert Mangmang-Salingay. “The storybooks guide learners on their rights and safety online, which is crucial as digital risks increase.”
These initiatives reflect PLDT and Smart’s broader commitment to digital wellness, community partnerships, and quality learning environments, contributing to the United Nations’ SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
