More than 100 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) owners and entrepreneurs from across Palawan gathered in Puerto Princesa City for MSME Day Palawan, a learning event highlighting how digital technologies can help strengthen businesses, expand customer reach, and unlock new growth opportunities.
Led by PLDT and Smart through PLDT Enterprise and the Group’s #KonektedforLivelihoods advocacy, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the whole-day session provided local entrepreneurs with practical insights into using digital solutions to improve business operations and adapt to an increasingly digital marketplace.
Participants joined discussions covering financial technology, connectivity solutions, short-form video content creation, and artificial intelligence. Experts from PLDT Enterprise and partner organizations shared real-world applications and tools that MSMEs can adopt to improve productivity, customer engagement, and business performance.
The initiative highlights the growing importance of digital transformation among provincial enterprises, particularly as entrepreneurs explore new ways to remain competitive and resilient in an evolving economy.
Connectivity: A Key to Business Growth
“Connectivity is really important for any business, and it has been especially helpful for us,” said Abigail Sontillano, owner of Natureganic Shoppe and one of the participants at MSME Day Palawan. “The internet has really enabled us to grow our business and serve more customers, not just here in Palawan, but also outside of it.”
Natureganic Shoppe offers all-natural personal care products, including soaps, shampoo bars, citronella balms, and lotions. According to Sontillano, the internet has helped the business connect with customers who discover its products through social media. Many are looking for anti-mosquito and anti-bug skincare solutions, particularly amid concerns about illnesses such as dengue.
“In Palawan as well as in other areas, dengue is widespread particularly during the rainy season. It can even be deadly sometimes,” she said. “It’s important that we are able to reach customers who need our products to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Bringing Digital Solutions Closer to Local Entrepreneurs
MSME Day Palawan was also attended by representatives from the Provincial Government of Palawan, led by Provincial Administrator Atty. Jefrie Sahagun, and DTI officials led by Provincial Director Hazel DP. Salvador.
Executives from PLDT and Smart also joined representatives from partner organizations Maya, mWell, RCBC, Landbank, and Cisco, who presented solutions designed to support the growth and sustainability of MSMEs.
The event is part of PLDT Enterprise’s continuing efforts to empower Filipino entrepreneurs through technology and digital skills development. Through initiatives such as MSME Day and the Group’s #KonektedForLivelihoods program, PLDT and Smart work with government agencies, local government units, and industry partners to bring digital learning opportunities closer to communities nationwide.
By helping MSMEs adopt digital tools and build their capabilities, PLDT Enterprise aims to support more resilient businesses, create economic opportunities, and contribute to inclusive growth in communities across the country.
