by Jan Michael Carpo, Reporter
The Philippines’ leading integrated telco, PLDT and Smart, have once again garnered international recognition for their commitment to digital empowerment.
At the prestigious 2024 World Communication Awards, the PLDT Group received the coveted Beyond Connectivity Award for its groundbreaking initiatives, #FarmSmart Communities via Technology and #Building Filipino #MSMEmpowered.
This award underscores the company’s dedication to bridging the digital divide and fostering equitable economic growth by providing underserved sectors with access to digital tools and training.
Creating a more digitally equipped and inclusive PH
“We are deeply honored that the World Communication Awards have acknowledged our efforts to create a more digitally equipped and inclusive Philippines,” stated Stephanie Orlino, PLDT and Smart’s head of stakeholder management. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that our partner communities have access to the digital tools and services they need to thrive.”
Through the #MSMEmpowered initiative, over 30,000 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have gained the digital skills and resources necessary to thrive in the local market.
E-commerce training and digital marketing workshops have empowered MSMEs to expand their businesses and reach a wider audience, contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth.
The #FarmSmart program has similarly empowered over 16,000 farmers nationwide by enhancing their access to digital technologies, expanding their markets, and providing digital literacy training. This has resulted in increased incomes, higher productivity, and improved efficiency within the agricultural sector.
Furthermore, PLDT and Smart were nominated for the Social Contribution Award for their Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Advocacy through Technology (IDEATe) program, which aims to create a more equitable digital landscape for all Filipinos, regardless of their background. The company also made the shortlist for Best Operator in a Growth Market.
Earlier this year, Smart also collaborated with global tech giants Adobe and Amdocs to be able to deliver a more personalized and data-driven service to its subscribers.
As the first mobile operator in Southeast Asia to adopt Adobe Experience Platform, the company is now poised to deliver real-time, tailored services that cater to each customer’s unique needs.
This strategic move also aligns with the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional digital experiences, ensuring that Filipinos stay connected and empowered.
Smart Money relaunches amid e-wallet competition
The World Communication Awards win comes as the PLDT Group prepares to relaunch its first e-wallet app, Smart Money. The app is now available for download on both iOS and Android devices via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Currently, users can only join a waitlist to access Smart Money’s features, which include mobile load, money transfers, and bill payments for various services like postpaid mobile, cable, internet, water, electricity, tolls, and education.
Smart Communications COO Anastacio Martirez expressed his intention to reclaim market share from GCash, a dominant player in the Philippine e-wallet market operated by PLDT’s rival, Globe Telecom.
“We were the first in the industry to introduce Smart Money, ahead of GCash,” Martirez stated. “Somewhere along the way something happened, but that’s not a problem. I’m back. I want to bring it back. I want to rebuild and I hope I can retake (our previous market share).”
Smart Money was previously replaced by Paymaya, which was later rebranded to Maya and is now a digital bank.
The PLDT Group’s focus on digital inclusion and its renewed push into the e-wallet market demonstrate its commitment to driving innovation and empowering Filipinos in the digital age.