Over 100 Palawan small business owners attend digital tools training in Puerto Princesa

More than 100 owners of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from across Palawan took part in a whole-day learning session in Puerto Princesa City on using digital technology to run and grow their businesses, according to Mindanao Times.

The event, called MSME Day Palawan, was organised by PLDT and Smart through PLDT Enterprise and the group's #KonektedforLivelihoods advocacy, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Sessions covered financial technology, connectivity solutions, short-form video content creation and artificial intelligence, with speakers from PLDT Enterprise and partner organisations presenting tools that entrepreneurs could apply to their operations and customer engagement.

One participant, Abigail Sontillano, owner of Natureganic Shoppe, said internet access had helped her business find customers both within and outside the province. Her shop sells all-natural soaps, shampoo bars and citronella balms and lotions, and she said many buyers discover the products on social media while looking for protection against mosquitoes and dengue. "In Palawan as well as in other areas, dengue is widespread, particularly during the rainy season," Sontillano said.

Attendees also included Palawan Provincial Administrator Atty. Jefrie Sahagun, DTI Provincial Director Hazel DP. Salvador, PLDT and Smart executives, and representatives of partner organisations Maya, mWell, RCBC, Landbank and Cisco.

According to the report, the event is part of PLDT Enterprise's ongoing programme of bringing digital skills training to entrepreneurs in communities nationwide, working with government agencies, local government units and industry partners.