Small businesses in Puerto Princesa are getting more opportunities to build their digital skills as Grab Philippines brings its Grab Asenso Learning Caravan to the city. The full-day masterclass equipped GrabFood merchant-partners with practical tools and strategies designed to help them strengthen their businesses and navigate the growing digital economy.
The caravan is part of Grab Asenso Digital Diskarte, Grab’s flagship technology and AI enablement program for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), conducted in partnership with the International Trade Centre (ITC), a joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations that supports small businesses in competing globally.
Helping Merchants Make The Most Of Digital Tools
Sessions introduced merchants to growth and payment features available through the GrabMerchant app, including GrabAds Spotlight Campaigns, Tap & Scan to Pay for QR and card payments, and the GrabMerchant AI Assistant, an AI-powered co-pilot designed to support day-to-day operations.
ITC experts also led hands-on sessions covering digital content mastery and content strategy, giving local entrepreneurs practical ways to strengthen their online presence and communicate their brands more effectively.
Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron welcomed Grab’s efforts to support local businesses through digitalization, noting that GrabFood can also help restaurants reach customers who may not always have the time to visit physical establishments.
Supporting Puerto Princesa’s Homegrown Businesses
Since GrabFood launched in Puerto Princesa in October 2025, the platform has onboarded local businesses including Haim Chicken, Puerto’s Pancit Malabon, 100% Cafe Moto, and Del Cusina.
For 100% Cafe Moto, technology has helped simplify the ordering and delivery process, while Del Cusina saw its sales increase by up to 30% after partnering with GrabFood following the rebuilding of its business after Typhoon Odette.
Through its partnership with ITC under the Digital PINAS program, Grab plans to bring expert-led masterclasses to Learning Caravans in regional cities nationwide through the end of 2026. The program will cover digital business profiles, online presence, branding and marketing content, creative platforms, and AI-powered tools for business operations.
“Empowering them is essential to building a more inclusive and resilient Philippine economy,” said RJ Cabaluna, vice president for Cities at Grab Philippines, highlighting the company’s commitment to giving MSMEs greater access to technology, knowledge, and opportunities.
