PLDT and Smart, the country’s leading integrated telco, have once again been recognized for helping empower Filipino farmers, fishermen and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with digital technologies.
The PLDT Group was awarded the prestigious Beyond Connectivity Award at the 2024 World Communication Awards for its innovative programs Building Filipino #MSMEmpowered and #FarmSmart Communities through Technology.
This recognition highlights the sustained efforts of PLDT and Smart to bridge the digital divide and foster more equitable economic growth by providing digital tools and training to the country’s marginalized sectors.
“We thank the World Communication Awards for recognizing our efforts to build a more inclusive, digitally enabled Philippines. We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensure that our partner communities have access to digital tools and services, so no Filipino is left behind,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, Head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.
PLDT and Smart’s #MSMEmpowered program has equipped 30,000 MSMEs with the digital skills and tools they need to compete in the local market. Through e-commerce training and digital marketing workshops, MSMEs have been able to expand their businesses and market reach, to contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
The #FarmSmart initiative has empowered over 16,000 farmers through access to digital tools, digital literacy trainings, and expanded markets that have led to increased productivity, improved efficiencies, and higher incomes for farmers across the country.
PLDT and Smart were also nominated under the Social Contribution Award category for its Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Advocacy through Technology (IDEATe) program which aims to create a more equitable digital landscape where all Filipinos, regardless of age, gender, religion, physical and mental ability through digital technologies. The group was also shortlisted as Best Operator in a Growth Market.
The World Communication Awards recognize the most innovative and impactful achievements in the global telecommunications industry. By winning the Beyond Connectivity Award, PLDT and Smart have solidified their position as a leader in driving innovation and digital inclusion in the Philippines.
