PLDT Enterprise, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), recently held MSME Day Pampanga, gathering over 120 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from the region to inspire and empower business growth through digital transformation. The event is part of PLDT Enterprise’s ongoing commitment to support the MSME sector across the Philippines, with previous legs held in Iloilo City and Dipolog City.
Co-presented by USAID, MSME Day Pampanga showcased the four pillars of successful business growth: Access to Technology, Access to Finance, Access to Market, and Access to Upskilling.
Entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts and network with peers, all while exploring the latest digital solutions provided by PLDT Enterprise to enhance business operations.
A Platform for Customer Growth and Success
PLDT Enterprise’s Vice President and Head of Enterprise Revenue Group, Jay Lagdameo, emphasized the importance of supporting MSMEs as critical drivers of economic growth in the Philippines.
“Our commitment to empowering the MSME sector extends far beyond simply providing digital solutions,” said Lagdameo. “MSME Day was a true reflection of our dedication to this vital sector. We took proactive steps to connect with MSMEs across key cities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, ensuring that we reach as many entrepreneurs as possible. But this is just the beginning. At PLDT Enterprise, we are constantly exploring new opportunities to strengthen and support MSMEs nationwide, helping them thrive in an increasingly digital world.”
The event also highlighted inspiring success stories from local businesses, including Razon’s by Glenn, L.A. Bakeshop, Macabebest, and Makimura Ramen Bar, who shared their journey of resilience and growth, illustrating the transformative impact of digital tools on their businesses.
Razon’s by Glenn is a family restaurant known for its unique halo-halo, palabok, and Kapampangan food. During the event, Mark Anthony “Glenn” Razon Carreon, CEO and President of Razon’s by Glenn, shared that pursuing the dream of entrepreneurship has been a transformative journey filled with both challenges and rewards. Starting from a small food business rooted in bringing their signature “tradition of delight” to their customers, Razon’s by Glenn has grown into a beloved brand recognized for its unique Kapampangan delicacies. This growth reflects more than just financial success; it represents a commitment to community and a passion for innovation, showing how entrepreneurship requires a bold vision, perseverance, and a willingness to face challenges head-on. The restaurant reiterated that the journey is all about continuously learning, adapting, and creating a meaningful impact.
Jonathan Yanga, Founder and General Manager of Macabebest, a popular comfort food establishment famous for its halo-halo and flavored champorado, also shared a heartfelt message with his fellow entrepreneurs, encouraging them to “trust the process, build meaningful partnerships, and stay open to learning new things.”
Dr. Marc Joseph Lim, Chief Operating Officer of L.A. Bakeshop, a staple in the Pampanga food industry known for its original cheesebread, recounted the bakeshop’s journey from a small family-run bakery to a thriving enterprise. Dr. Lim also emphasized how digitalization and efficient connectivity have played a crucial role in expanding their reach beyond traditional boundaries.
The bakery’s experience underscores the importance of connectivity in reaching a broader market and maintaining operational efficiency – a vision supported by PLDT Enterprise’s broadband solutions.
Meanwhile, Vickee Navallo Dela Cruz-Ong, Chief Operating Officer or Makimura Ramen Bar, founded on the principles of humility, resilience, and community, showcased its growth from humble beginnings to a reputable local dining establishment.
These MSMEs’ journey highlights the importance of sustainable growth, investing in people, and embracing technology to drive efficiency and customer satisfaction. Their unique stories reflect the empowering impact of digital tools on small businesses, enabling them to adapt, thrive, and serve their communities better.
Building Sustainable Impact for All
Beyond individual business stories, MSME Day Pampanga underscores PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
By facilitating digital transformation among MSMEs, PLDT Enterprise is not only strengthening the local economy but also contributing to broader goals such as Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9).
Following the success of MSME Day Pampanga, PLDT Enterprise continues to reinforce its role as a key partner in the digital transformation of businesses nationwide, staying true to its mission of enabling MSMEs to thrive in a digitally driven economy.For more information on PLDT Enterprise’s initiatives to support MSMEs, visit pldtenterprise.com.