In a bid to further accelerate its digital transformation initiative for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the Philippines, Digital Pilipinas recently launched its Malolos Bulacan Regional Roadshow, marking the start of a nationwide caravan.
This landmark event, a collaboration between GeiserMaclang Marketing Communications Inc. (GMCI), Digital Pilipinas led by Convenor Amor Maclang, and the Malolos City government under the leadership of Mayor Christian Natividad, aims to enhance the digital capabilities of SMEs and drive economic growth in the province.
Event participants take a souvenir group photo in front of the historic Barasoain Church in Malolos
The event’s significance is underscored by the critical role that SMEs play in the Philippine economy, accounting for 96% of all businesses. However, the latest data collected by Digitial Pilipinas reveals a concerning trend: 20% of small businesses fail within their first year, 50% by their fifth year, and a staggering 80% by their tenth year.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for support and innovation in the sector.
The roadshow featured a rich cultural tour, showcasing Malolos’ unique attractions and traditions, including the intricate art of Pabalat Pastillas wrapper making and Puni Leaf art folding. Attendees also savoured local delicacies such as Mercy’s Empanada de Kaliskis and Gorio and Mimis Kakanin, providing a taste of Malolos’ rich culinary heritage.
This pivotal investment conference, which was held at the historic Barasoain Church in Malolos, brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and local officials, including Malolos Vice Mayor Migs Tengco Bautista.
The conference focused on empowering SMEs through digital solutions aimed at expanding their market reach and competitiveness.
Digital Pilipinas’ partners, including Dragonpay, BPI VYBE, CIS Bayad Center, Smart, Overseas Filipino Bank (OF Bank), Proxtera, CyberQ Group, and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Bulacan, showcased a range of digital tools and services. The conference emphasized that digital transformation is not a future aspiration but a present necessity for businesses.
Digital Transformation: The Now, Not Tomorrow
The conference spotlighted the transformative power of digital technologies such as e-wallets, delivery services, and online shopping platforms. Key discussions covered the potential of microlending and how these digital advancements can help SMEs thrive.
Photo shows Malolos Vice Mayor Miguel Alberto T. Bautista (center) together with Angelita Q. Parungao (5th from left), Provincial Director of DOST PSTO Bulacan and Amor Maclang (6th from left), Convenor of Digital Pilipinas and CEO and Co-founder of GeiserMaclang, as they pose with other leaders at the historic SME conference in Malolos. Joining them are (from left:) Engr. Derrick Bernales, Project Development Officer at BARAS Technology Business Incubator (TBI); Engr. Nemuel Norman Giron, Bulacan State University rep and Center Manager for BARAS TBI; Ma. Amalia E. Palpal, Vice Chairperson of Caniogan Credit & Development Cooperative; and Engr. Lance Arojado, Consortium Project Manager of SULONG Central Luzon Start-up.
The panel discussion titled “From Traditional to Digital: Navigating the Transformation for SMEs” underscored the critical importance of adopting cashless payment systems, enhancing cybersecurity, and investing in employee upskilling.
During the event, Atty. Reo S. Andarino, President of Overseas Filipino Bank, emphasized the shift towards cashless transactions. Mark Orenza from CyberQ Group discussed the increasing threat of social engineering attacks, while Fleethive CEO Jiego Tanchanco highlighted the effective use of digital tools to optimize business operations.
Advanced Tools for Next-Level Growth
The conference also introduced cutting-edge tools designed to propel SMEs forward. Digital Pilipinas partners showcased innovative marketing and technology solutions accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Some of the more notable tools included:
- Proxtera — a platform that facilitates international product marketing and sales, helping businesses scale globally.
- SingleInterface — a tool for delivering hyper-targeted content via global platforms, ideal for businesses aiming to reach specific audiences without overwhelming them.
- NetCore — An AI-powered martech platform revolutionizing customer engagement.
- Flowace — a solution for managing remote workforces effectively.
- Intermall — an app-based solution for comprehensive mall management.
- End Solutions — a service for converting paper documents into digital files, which is particularly useful for cooperatives.
These innovations reflect DP’s commitment to empowering SMEs through digital transformation, reinforcing the importance of the Malolos Roadshow as a catalyst for nationwide digital progress.
Timeless Insights and Future Directions
During the event, GMCI co-founder Brad Geiser and Content Consultant Ria De Borja presented “Premiumizing Local Brands,” offering strategies to enhance the perceived value of local products. They emphasized that valorization, the process of elevating a brand culturally and socially, remains crucial even amidst digital advancements.
GeiserMaclang Marketing Communications Inc. Co-Founder Brad Geiser (left) and Content Consultant Ria De Borja share tips on making products more desirable at premium prices.
Vice Mayor Migs Tengco Bautista encouraged the local business community to embrace digital transformation, especially in light of the upcoming new airport, which promises to boost economic activity in Malolos. Amor Maclang led the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Bulacan’s startup enablers, including Bulacan State University’s BARAS Technology Business Incubator and the Sulong Central Luzon Start-up Consortium. A second panel discussion highlighted the robust support available to SMEs through digitalization.
This initiative aligns with President Marcos’ program “FUTURE-READY FILIPINOS & BUSINESSES,” which focuses on upskilling and digital transformation. By equipping Malolos’ SMEs with essential knowledge and tools, Digital Pilipinas is fostering resilient and future-proof Filipino businesses.
As the largest private sector-led movement promoting digital transformation in the Philippines, Digital Pilipinas will continue its journey to various locations across the country. Earlier this year, Digital Pilipinas also hosted the SiGMA Asia Summit 2024 in Manila, turning the city into a bustling hub for Filipino gig workers and gamers.
For more information about this nationwide movement promoting digital transformation, visit Digital Pilipinas.