Keeping up with modern technologies can be overwhelming, but entrepreneur Mary Jane Pitogo is willing to take on the challenge. Because of the “Pilipinas Aahon at Babangon" learning caravan organized by PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), Mary Jane is now committed to push herself to utilize digital tools and online resources that can help improve the reach of her products.

With nothing but grit and perseverance, the Kagay-anon business owner began making confectionary products for ’pasalubongs’ four years ago. Her journey required a lot of sacrifice, as she had to start all over again due to the impacts of the pandemic. Even as an exporter of locally-produced Salvaro and Rosquillos, she had hesitations about using digital platforms and relied solely on her son to market their products.

Along with other MSMEs, the 55-year-old entrepreneur was thrilled to be a part of the community technopreneurship training held in partnership with Shopee Philippines and the Department of Trade & Industry. “I thank PLDT and Smart for this wonderful initiative. It has helped boost the confidence of small enterprise owners like me in selling our products online and using digital tools available,” she said.

PLDT and Smart continue to highlight the use of technology in levelling up the small business sector to create a smarter and more resilient Philippines, able to withstand economic risks. This effort also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.