DTI, PLDT ink partnership

THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry has partnered with Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) to power more than a hundred Go Negosyo Centers, which are aimed primarily at helping the micro, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) expand their businesses.

Through the DTI’s partnership with PLDT Smart SME Nation, the telecommunications firms said it would provide Wi-Fi connectivity and a video monitoring security solution for the 131 existing Negosyo Centers. MSMEs will also be allowed to participate in community training, specialized talks and digital training organized by PLDT Smart SME Nation and the DTI throughout the year.

Jerry Clavesillas, director of the Bureau of SME Development at the DTI, said they welcomed the assistance provided by PLDT as he stressed the importance of providing fast services to MSMEs through online transactions and access to information.

In the same statement, Eric Alberto, PLDT and Smart EVP and head of enterprise, international and carrier business, also emphasized how important it was to enable entrepreneurs to become solid and robust as they serve as primary pillars of the country’s economic development.

“We have always been one with our partners in promoting entrepreneurial empowerment among Filipinos and fervently supporting the country’s thriving SMEs. With this Negosyo Center collaboration, PLDT Smart SME Nation can further help local entrepreneurs get started, grow, and contribute to the economic progress for our country,” Alberto said.

The DTI has been given the key responsibility of establishing the Negosyo Centers nationwide, as provided for under Republic Act No. 10644, or the Go Negosyo Act, which seeks to strengthen MSMEs nationwide to create more job opportunities in the country. It was signed into law by President Aquino on July 15 last year.