Virac, Catanduanes Barangays Receive Disaster Resilience Support from PLDT, Smart, PDRF

Year after year, Catanduanes in the Bicol Region stands on the frontlines of the fiercest storms. Known as the "Land of the Howling Winds," the island province lies directly along the western Pacific typhoon belt, making it one of the first areas in the Philippines to bear the brunt of powerful typhoons, torrential rains, and storm surges.

Recognizing the urgent need to strengthen disaster preparedness in one of the country's most disaster-prone provinces, PLDT, Smart, and the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), through Australian Aid-funded Project REACHED (Resilient Emergency Communications for Enhanced Disaster Response) recently marked July as the National Disaster Resilience Month by turning over Ligtas Kits to three vulnerable barangays in Virac, Catanduanes, Barangays Balite, Simamla, and Talisoy, strengthening the disaster preparedness capability of the municipality.

The PLDT and Smart Ligtas Kit is a portable, all-in-one emergency communication and power package that includes a power station, solar panel, smartphone, crank radio, pocket WiFi, emergency lights, FM radio, and charging accessories, essential tools for maintaining communication and power during critical situations.

PDRF Center Director Arnel Capili said that the kits build on earlier deployments in Virac, extending the support to barangays previously outside the scope of Project REACHED. “Building the disaster resilience and capacity of these Virac barangays reflects the combined efforts of the PDRF, PLDT and Smart, the Office of Civil Defense, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the World Food Programme, and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, through Project REACHED.”

Virac Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer II Josephine Benavidez said that the selected barangays have limited mobile coverage, making coordination during emergencies challenging. “With the PLDT and Smart Ligtas Kit, we will now be able to monitor the condition of the residents even prior to our team physically being in the area,” according to Benavidez.

Barangay Balite Kagawad Alexander Borja said that the kit fills a longstanding gap in the barangay's disaster response capacity, which previously relied on a single, small generator during power interruptions common in the coastal area. He said the megaphone and power station will be particularly useful for coordinating evacuations along the coastline.

Virac Mayor Hon. Sinforoso M. Sarmiento, Jr. acknowledged that the assistance addresses a real need in the municipality, given limited local government resources that are often prioritized for basic needs. He also said that the barangays selected have consistently performed well in the delivery of local public service, giving assurance that the equipment will be properly maintained and used.

The turnover, held at the Virac Municipal Hall, was attended by Mayor Sarmiento, PDRF Center Director Capili, and PLDT and Smart FVP and head of Public Engagement Roby Alampay, who said that “it's about making sure that we can still help each other, especially when we can't communicate with each other. This is part of our mission to work hand-in-hand with partners, particularly LGUs. Local governments know their communities best, and our partnership with them is central to how we deliver disaster resilience programs.”

The Virac turnover forms part of a broader effort under Project REACHED to strengthen emergency communication and response capabilities in disaster-prone communities nationwide. PLDT and Smart continue to work with partners like the PDRF under the #KonektedForResilience advocacy, promoting disaster resilience before, during, and after emergencies.

Metro Cebu Strengthens Push for Smarter Local Governance through PLDT, Smart’s AI-in-a-Box

Metro Cebu is taking a major step toward smarter and more responsive public service with the rollout of PLDT and Smart AI-in-a-Box (AIAB) program.

 

AI-in-a-Box is the PLDT Group’s initiative to make artificial intelligence (AI) more accessible to communities. The program combines digital tools, connectivity, training, and mentorship to help local government units turn emerging technologies into practical solutions. As part of the initiative, participating LGUs received an AI-in-a-Box kit that includes a laptop, a smartphone, a Smart connectivity device, and premium access to AI tools, including ChatGPT.

 

In a simple ceremony at the Cebu City Hall, Mayor Nestor Archival received the AI-in-a-Box package on behalf of the local government of Cebu City, from PLDT and Smart represented by Roby Alampay, FVP and Head of Public Engagement and Corporate Communications, and Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement.

 

The rollout successfully extends across Metro Cebu, including Lapu-Lapu City and Talisay City, which also received their respective AIAB packages.  Key personnel from all three cities have undergone specialized training to strengthen their internal AI capabilities and identify practical applications of AI in local government work.

 

“We at PLDT and Smart believe that technology should help enhance the delivery of public service. Through the AI-in-a-Box Program, we affirm our commitment in assisting LGUs level up service delivery through a more citizen-focused, practical, secure, and innovative technology," said Alampay.

 

As one of the four pioneer participant cities in the country, Cebu City proudly represents the entire Visayas region in a mentorship and acceleration program organized by PLDT and Smart, with support from the group’s social outreach arm, the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF). This mentorship program is specifically designed to help local offices transform conceptual ideas into practical, real-world AI solutions for faster, more responsive governance. Through the program, participating Cebu City personnel will receive guidance as they develop and deploy AI-enabled solutions that respond to specific needs in their communities.

 

In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Mayor Archival warmly welcomed the program, noting that it is heartening for Cebu City to be selected as a pioneer participant and the sole representative from the Visayas. He emphasized that through PLDT and Smart’s AI-in-a-Box program the city will strengthen its use of innovation and AI solutions to deliver faster, more efficient, and more compassionate service to the people of Cebu.

 

By bridging the gap between advanced technology and localized public service, this initiative underscores PLDT and Smart's broader commitment to fostering digital inclusion across the Philippines. As these local government units integrate AI into their daily workflows, the program aims to establish a scalable blueprint for digital governance that can be replicated in other provinces, ultimately driving nationwide development through shared technological progress. 

CTU Mountain Campus Receives Digital Tools, PlantSmart Kits from PSF

PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc.’s social outreach arm PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), in collaboration with Cebu Diversified Advocacy Cooperative (CEDACO), extended support to Cebu Technological University Cebu City Mountain Campus (CTU CCM) through the donation of digital tools, office supplies, and planting kits as part of PSF’s nationwide back-to-school initiative.

CTU CCM, established to serve the youth in the upland communities of Cebu City, has grown into a trusted learning hub for students across the Visayas and Mindanao. Surrounded by farming communities and eco-tourism sites, the campus offers agriculture-related programs that directly support and strengthen local livelihoods and industries.

"Young people have the capacity to shape the future of agriculture, not only through modern technology, but through fresh ideas and a commitment to serve their communities. We hope these resources encourage students to think beyond the classroom and become changemakers who will help us build a more connected and empowered Philippines,” said Ma. Esther O. Santos, President, PLDT-Smart Foundation.

Aligned with its mission to empower agricultural communities, PSF integrates this advocacy into its education initiatives to inspire the youth to take an active role in advancing the agriculture sector and promoting sustainability.

CTU CCM’s Agriculture Department received a laptop with e-learning materials, a printer, and office supplies to enhance teaching, research, and student learning. These resources are especially impactful for students with limited access to technology.

“Thank you so much to PSF for donating these supplies to us. This is our first time receiving a donation like this. This is very helpful for our instruction, research, and for our students because most of them do not even have a laptop,” said Alma Rosillo-Magno, PhD, Agriculture Department faculty at CTU CCM.

PLDT and Smart also donated #PlantSmart kits containing vegetable seeds, loam soil, and fertilizers, supporting the campus garden while encouraging students to grow their own food and practice sustainable agriculture.

PSF’s back-to-school initiative reinforces the PLDT Group’s efforts to help provide quality education to Filipino children and youth through digital technology. This effort also aligns with PLDT and Smart’s goal to help the country achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG No. 4, which promotes quality education.

Smart, Sam YG Empower Customers on Scams and Digital Habits

As digital threats grow alongside rapid technological advancement, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is strengthening its push to equip Filipinos with the knowledge and tools to stay safe online.

 

At its recent Customer Day at the Smart Store in SM North EDSA Cyberzone, the spotlight went beyond connectivity — focusing instead on education and responsible digital behavior, and empowering customers to make the most of today's digital world.

 

Smart Customer Day is a celebration of the customers who continue to place their trust in Smart. Customers enjoyed exclusive event-only promos on devices and connectivity, while taking part in interactive activities and practical learning sessions designed to help them stay informed, connected, and confident in an increasingly digital world.

 

Through its SCAMpaign, Smart continues to raise awareness on evolving online threats, helping subscribers recognize, avoid, and report scams in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

 

Customers also learned practical digital payment habits, including the benefits of cashless transactions, protecting financial information online, and adopting safe payment practices that make everyday transactions more convenient and secure

 

"This initiative reflects Smart's broader commitment in ensuring that customers are not only connected but also protected and empowered. We hope that through the Smart Customer Day, they can have fun and learn skills that can help them maximize the use of their mobile devices and safely navigate the online world," said Brenda M. Dichoso, FVP for Customer Experience at Smart.

 

Event host, content creator, and Smart brand ambassador Sam YG underscored the importance of responsible technology use, particularly in an era shaped by information overload and rapidly evolving online risks.

 

“Ang daming scams, fake news, so it’s also good to have these events so that we could properly discuss how to use this privilege, this power properly," he shared. “Inasmuch as we are blessed with technology, it’s very important to be vigilant, to check if what we’ve digested is actually true, or baka fake news or scam. While tech is improving, scams are also improving.”

 

Guests also got to experience emerging technologies firsthand through a demonstration of Rokid augmented reality glasses, showcasing how innovation can enhance productivity, collaboration, and everyday digital experiences.

 

For long-time Smart subscribers, this focus on education and protection resonates deeply in everyday life — where reliable connectivity powers work, family responsibilities, and digital interactions.

 

“We won't be staying with Smart for 30 years if we’re not getting the right services. We feel valued as customers,” shared Jackie Rose Caez, emphasizing how dependable service supports her family’s work-from-home and online learning needs.

 

Subscriber Jose B. Montalbo, Jr., who frequently works in the field, echoed the importance of both connectivity and awareness. “That’s exactly the reason why I stick with Smart. Mas maganda ang signal sa probinsya, you have promos na swak na swak."

 

By bringing together education, real-life experiences, and expert insights, Smart continues to reinforce its role as a partner in customers’ digital journeys — one that goes beyond service to enable safer, more informed online participation.

 

“At Smart, we go beyond connectivity by listening to our customers and equipping them with the knowledge to stay safe, informed, and confident in the digital space,” said FVP and co-OIC at Smart Lloyd R. Manaloto.

 

From scam awareness to social media tips, Smart Customer Day showcased how mobile connectivity empowers everyday life, whether for work, creativity, or staying safe online. With more events lined up nationwide, Smart Customer Day will continue to highlight Smart’s commitment to delivering fast, reliable mobile experiences while bringing joy, learning, and meaningful connection to customers across the country.

How PLDT and Smart’s KonektedforLearning is Helping Shape Education in the Philippines

From pen and paper to artificial intelligence (AI) and interactive applications, PLDT and Smart’s #KonektedforLearning initiative champions learning for all by integrating technology into Philippine classrooms and boosting education resiliency through crisis-tested teaching strategies.

"Technology has the power to expand opportunities for learning, but its true value lies in how it helps students, teachers, and communities overcome barriers," said Stephanie V. Orlino, Assistant Vice President and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart. "Through KonektedforLearning, we work with partners to ensure that more Filipino learners can access quality education, develop future-ready skills, and continue learning even in challenging circumstances."

For decades, PLDT and Smart have worked alongside the Department of Education (DepEd) to help bring inclusive and quality learning opportunities to underserved communities, including geographically isolated schools and areas affected by conflict and natural disasters.

Connecting last-mile schools

Among the flagship initiatives under #KonektedforLearning is the School-in-a-Bag, a portable digital classroom designed to bring quality education in remote and underserved communities. Each package comes with a laptop for the teacher, 10 tablets pre-loaded with DepEd curriculum-based learning materials and interactive educational applications, a Smart Bro LTE Pocket Wi-Fi device, and expandable storage.

To date, PLDT and Smart, together with their partners and donors, have deployed 784 SIAB packages nationwide reaching nearly 120,000 students. UNICEF alone has committed more than 300 SIAB units for schools in hard-to-reach areas and economically disadvantaged communities.

Building Resilience Through Innovative Teaching

In recent years, extreme weather, earthquakes, and armed conflicts have disrupted classes across the country. To mitigate the impact caused by these events, the DepEd has adopted the PLDT and Smart-backed Central Visayan Institute Dynamic Learning Program (CVIF-DLP).

Pioneered by Ramon Magsaysay Awardees Dr. Christopher Bernido and his late wife, Dr. Marivic Carpio-Bernido, CVIF-DLP champions ‘learning by doing’ which places students at the center of the learning process. Using Learning Activity Sheets or single-page guides that break down complex concepts into manageable lessons, students work through the activity on their own with minimal teacher intervention. CVIF-DLP also addresses teacher shortage through a parallel class system that allows one expert teacher to simultaneously handle three classes.

With PLDT and Smart’s help in scaling the innovative teaching strategy, the program has trained around 33,000 teachers.

Preparing students for tomorrow’s technologies

Beyond improving access to education, #KonektedforLearning also prepares the Filipino youth to thrive in an increasing digital landscape. The Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP) works closely with schools to produce industry-ready engineering and information and communications technology graduates who are equipped with the skills to master existing technologies and adapt to emerging innovations.

Launched in 2003, SWEEP is the longest-running industry-academe linkage program in the Philippines. Now on its fifth phase, partner schools dive deeper into AI, automation, and intelligent systems. So far, the program has trained more than 53,000 teachers and students on the latest communication solutions powering the country’s connectivity.

Upskilling teachers for tech-powered learning

As technology continues to evolve, PLDT and Smart are also helping teachers harness digital tools to improve classroom experience. Through the PLDT Group’s AI-in-a-Box program, teachers are discovering how AI can help create more dynamic lesson plans, create custom learning activities, analyze data for insights, and automate routine administrative tasks. Since its pilot bootcamp last year, the initiative has trained over 800 teachers on the responsible and productive use of AI in education.

These efforts highlight PLDT and Smart’s use of technology for good, ensuring that no learner and teacher are left behind. The #KonektedforLearning initiatives form part of the PLDT Group’s commitment to help the country achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 4 on Quality Education, with a strong focus on digital literacy. 

Cabanatuan Eyes Faster, More Responsive Government Services through PLDT, Smart’s AI-in-a-Box

Cabanatuan City takes a huge leap into a smarter future with PLDT and Smart’s AI-in-a-Box program. Under the initiative, the city government will develop its own AI-powered solution aimed at making public services smarter and more efficient.

 

"We see artificial intelligence as a practical tool for improving governance and delivering better outcomes for our people,” said Mayor Myca Elizabeth R. Vergara of Cabanatuan City. “We are committed to institutionalizing this initiative and integrating it into our operations. This is part of our broader vision of building a smarter, more responsive city government that listens, acts, and serves more effectively."

 

With support from PLDT-Smart Foundation and Microsoft Philippines, AI-in-a-Box is the PLDT Group’s initiative to make artificial intelligence more accessible to communities, combining digital tools, connectivity, and training to help organizations and local governments turn emerging technologies into practical solutions. Each kit includes a laptop, a smartphone, a connectivity device, and premium access to AI tools.

 

"AI-in-a-Box is about helping communities turn innovation into tangible benefits for the people they serve. By giving local governments access to practical AI tools and training, we hope to support more responsive public services, strengthen digital capabilities, and create more opportunities for Filipinos to thrive in an increasingly digital world," said Roby A. Alampay, FVP and Head of Public Engagement at PLDT and Smart.

 

Key personnel from different city government offices have been brought in for the AI mentorship and acceleration program. In the next few months, these Cabanatuan City LGU personnel will develop a centralized query platform that will receive citizen concerns, and route them to the appropriate office. Powered by AI, the system is expected to streamline public feedback management and help shorten response times for requests and inquiries. The city plans to integrate the solution into the existing ‘MyCabanatuan’ application.

 

As Cabanatuan City begins its AI Mentorship journey together with PLDT and Smart, it becomes one of several local government units exploring how technology can help make public services more responsive and accessible.

 

The city joins Baguio City, Cebu City, and the province of Lanao del Sur, which have likewise partnered with PLDT and Smart to tap AI-enabled solutions for local governance.

 

Through AI-in-a-Box, PLDT and Smart provide participating communities with access to digital tools, training, and mentorship as they build solutions designed to address local concerns. The initiative supports the PLDT Group’s much broader efforts to expand digital inclusion and encourage innovation in line with the UNSDG 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Digital-PINAS, PLDT, Smart Transform Laguna Farmers, Fisherfolk, Small Biz Owners Into Digital Entrepreneurs

Over a hundred farmers, fisherfolk, and small business owners across the province of Laguna are now ready to become digital entrepreneurs, through a training conducted by the International Trade Centre (ITC) under the Digital-PINAS initiative, or the Joint Programme on Inclusive, Competitive, ​and Responsible Digital Philippines​.

 

Digital-PINAS brings community-based MSME workshops to local communities, with support from sole telco partner PLDT and Smart through the group’s #KonektedforLivelihoods initiative.

 

In the workshops conducted in the towns of Santa Cruz, Pila, Victoria, and Los Baños, PLDT and Smart representatives held sessions on smartphone photography and cybersecurity awareness, to enable participants to better showcase their products online, while protecting themselves from falling victim to online scams. The Group also distributed Smart Prepaid pocket wifi units and load cards to support the sessions.

 

"True digital transformation in the countryside isn't about giving small business owners complicated software they don't need. It is about taking the fear out of technology and showing a farmer or a local food vendor that a smartphone can be a powerful tool to protect their daily harvest, reach new buyers, and secure their family's income right from their farms or kitchen tables. But without internet connectivity, bringing this digital transformation to the most in need is challenging. We are proud to count PLDT and Smart as our partner in supporting internet access during our trainings under Digital-PINAS and enhancing the connectivity of small businesses across the Philippines," said Lorna Bondoc, Lead ITC Digital Expert, Digital-PINAS.

 

“Our participation in Digital-PINAS reflects the PLDT Group's broader commitment to inclusive growth, particularly for communities that have long faced barriers to entry in the digital economy. But our role goes beyond connectivity, because these sessions are meant to give the participants both the skills and the confidence to compete as digital entrepreneurs," said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart.

 

In Santa Cruz, the logo creation and smartphone photography modules gave members of the Coalition Alliance of Farmers in Santa Cruz, Laguna the foundation to begin building their online presence. "From being ‘just farmers’, our members can now become farmer-entrepreneurs," said Queen Anino, Secretary of CAFSCL.

 

In Pila, 40 farmer-MSMEs and local business owners, including members of the Pila Laguna Agriculture Cooperative, applied smartphone photography techniques to their own products on-site.

 

In Victoria, women entrepreneurs Jennifer Soria of Momshie Jen's Bites and Filominas Espiritu of Pinky's Pasalubong learned to improve their products’ appearance on social media.

 

In Los Baños, cooperative leaders from the Municipal Cooperative Development Council and partner organizations learned the correct process of practical product photography. “This is excellent training for entrepreneurs like us," according to Rafael J. Jumawid, Vice Chairman of the council.

 

Through its #KonektedforLivelihoods, the PLDT Group partners with likeminded institutions like the ITC through initiatives like Digital-PINAS, to help advance digital entrepreneurship among MSMEs. Digital-PINAS is funded by the UN Sustainable Development Goals Fund with generous contributions from the European Union, and implemented by ITC, the International Labour Organization, and the UN Development Programme, alongside key government agencies led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology. 

School-in-a-Bag Reaches Far-Flung Schools in Southern Leyte

Students in remote schools in the province of Southern Leyte learn how to read and solve mathematical equations using interactive tech-powered educational tools found inside School-in-a-Bag (SIAB) packages. The latest deployment, sponsored by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), the Department of Education Region 8, and the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), marks the global agency’s fourth and largest deployment of SIAB kits to date.

 

“Our mandate is to ensure that every child has equal access to quality education, especially those who are in the most marginalized communities. We hope this support will help drive meaningful changes in classrooms. These devices are not meant to add to teachers’ burden, but to help ease their workload and improve the overall teaching and learning experience for both teachers and students,” said Jieun Yoon, Education Specialist from UNICEF Philippines.

 

The recent turnover benefits 97 multigrade schools in hard-to-reach areas across the province. It underscores the long-standing collaboration between the UNICEF and the PLDT Group in making education more accessible and inclusive for Filipino learners. Since 2019, the partners have deployed more than 300 SIAB kits to last-mile schools across the country—bringing learning opportunities closer to children in remote and underserved communities. The initiative reflects a shared vision that every child, regardless of location or circumstance, deserves equal access to quality basic education.

 

“With the School-in-a-Bag, we aim to ensure that high-quality digital tools are within children's reach. We are grateful to have worked with UNICEF in reaching more remote schools in the region and bringing these portable digital classrooms directly to our learners,” said Roby A. Alampay, FVP and head of the Public Engagement and Corporate Communications Group at PLDT and Smart.

 

Benit Elementary School (Benit ES) in Malitbog, Southern Leyte, located about 38 kilometers from Maasin City, is among the beneficiaries of this year’s SIAB rollout. The support is expected to ease the burden of teachers due to personnel shortages.

 

“We are truly thankful to receive the SIAB funded by UNICEF. This is a big blessing for our learners, especially in multigrade classes where one teacher supports many students at once. With or without internet connectivity, teaching and learning can continue seamlessly because the kit also works offline. Our heartfelt thanks to UNICEF, PLDT, and Smart for helping us deliver accessible and continuous learning for our children," said Merry Ann B. Tagon, teacher-in-charge at Benit ES.

 

The School-in-a-Bag is PLDT and Smart’s portable digital classroom that carries a laptop, a Smart Bro LTE Pocket WiFi with load allocation, ten tablets, a comprehensive teacher’s guide, and a collection of digital learning resources. These include contextualized Learning Activity Sheets (LAS) and #LearnSmart educational applications designed to build literacy and numeracy skills in the learners’ Mother Tongue.

Under its #KonektedForLearning pillar, the PLDT Group, together with institutions like UNICEF, continue to bridge the digital divide and champion inclusive education. The SIAB project also supports the country’s efforts to achieve UNSDG 4 on Quality Education by utilizing the power of technology to uplift communities and help create a future where no learner is left behind. 

Dads Behind the Network

In telco and tech, speed and innovation often define success. But for the executives behind PLDT and Smart Communications, leadership is anchored in something more enduring: the lessons learned from their fathers.

This Father’s Day, they reflect on the values that shaped them early on and continue to influence how they lead, decide, and connect, both at work and at home.

Centered on faith and values

For PLDT COO Butch Jimenez, the most important lesson from his dad is modeling one's values, which has influenced his leadership style. "I make it a point that people see the values I believe in. While it is a cliche, I try my best to "walk the walk and not just talk the talk."

He shared that his family's Christian heritage — stemming from his great grandmother — has been passed on up to his children's generation. "To whom much is given, much is required — this is the same value I live by from God's playbook," he said.

Integrity that endures

For PLDT SVP and Home Business Head John Y. Palanca, leadership begins with integrity—an idea instilled long before his professional life.

“My father taught me that success means little if you lose your integrity along the way. He believed that doing what is right, even when it is not easy, builds lasting respect and trust, and showed me that reputation is earned over a lifetime and can be lost in a moment.”

That principle remains central to Palanca’s leadership style today. “It has shaped me to lead with empathy and accountability. In business, difficult decisions are inevitable, but I believe people will follow you if they know your decisions are grounded in fairness, honesty, and a genuine concern for others,” the executive added.

Even in a fast-changing digital landscape, Palanca underscores the importance of values that last. “I hope to pass on resilience, ‘street-smarts’, curiosity, and strong values. Technology will continue to evolve, but character, empathy, and the ability to adapt will always remain important and can only be learned in real-world situations.”

Leadership through example

For Smart co-OIC and FVP Lloyd R. Manaloto, the most powerful lessons weren’t taught, they were lived.

“My father was my role model. He's a self-made man who got to where he is in life through hard work and making a bet on a new medical technology in the early ‘80s. As a role model, the lesson he imparted was not through some cheesy quote or life lesson but rather a life of values which I emulated.”

His father’s work ethic and curiosity left a lasting imprint. “I did not follow in his footsteps as my life took on a different path away from the medical field, but the roll-up-your-sleeves attitude and inquisitive mind definitely rubbed off on me.”

Those traits now define how he leads teams in a dynamic industry. “When we're young, we think of leaders as charismatic generals. In real life, I suppose people actually gravitate to authenticity of values: nothing is more honest than working hard alongside someone else who is working as hard as you or harder than you. Nothing is as rewarding as finding out your leader is learning along with you. Nothing delivers security than realizing that you have someone who has your back no matter what.”

He extends this belief to brand-building, emphasizing consistency through change. “Be true to your core (values). I've always said, the success of the TNT brand is a function of the brand being true to its core values in 1999 until now. By being true to our values, we create this foundation of authenticity that allows to deliver our ‘saya’ services despite the shifts in technology.”

Yet, he admits, staying present at home requires just as much discipline. “When I'm at work, I'm focused on the demands of work. When I'm with my family, I'm mindful that I'm present and not just physically with my family. This is actually more difficult. Being mindful while being with family is a conscious effort. You can’t fake the smile on your children’s faces.  The photos of core memories are priceless.”

The weight of a name

For PLDT SVP and Enterprise Business Head Blums S. Pineda, leadership is defined by reputation and legacy.

“My father Patricio Pineda Jr., and my grandfather Patricio Pineda Sr. both taught me about the importance of a man’s name, his reputation, his integrity, what he stood for, and that you need to protect it.”

That sense of responsibility shapes how he approaches decision-making. “It has forced me to think hard about words and actions and their consequences. Especially for hard decisions - what’s fair and right, not only in the short term but also for the long term. And the quality of leadership is more about how one makes the hard decisions, not the easy ones.”

In an age of visibility and metrics, he challenges conventional markers of success. “In this day and age, it’s got to be more than your IG followers. It's about how you are contributing to others, contributing to society, being positive and engaged and proactive — whether in a big or small way.”

As a descendant of a Filipino hero, he also draws from a deeper legacy of sacrifice. “I am, of course, very proud to be the great, great grandson of Marcelo H. Del Pilar. In a way, that’s also the leadership lesson for me, that leadership is about sacrifice, about dedication.”

Where leadership begins

Across these leaders, one truth stands out: leadership does not begin in the office—it begins at home and in the connections that one builds.

“We have to put in the effort to connect, and to connect as deeply as you can, as often as you can, so make the time. And having the right balance has helped me lead better and perform better. They go hand in hand,” said Pineda.

For Manaloto, his advice to fathers navigating the constantly changing world is to stay grounded. “Fatherhood is not easy, but being real, present and engaged makes life worth living.” 

Palanca shared the same sentiment. “[Fatherhood] requires intentional effort. Being a father is not about being available every minute; it is about being available when it matters most. Small, consistent moments—family dinners, meaningful conversations, and simply listening—often have the biggest impact.”

To fathers navigating the demands of leadership and family life, Jimenez offered grounded advice: "There will be times you will have to focus more on work, times where you will have to focus more on home. You need God's guidance to know when. But when in doubt, the norm for me is family first."

In a business driven by connectivity, these leaders show that the most enduring connections are still human — built on trust, character, and presence.

Because before they led organizations, they were shaped at home.

And their first leadership lessons came from dad. 

Quezon City's Emergency Responders Receive Mental Health Support from PLDT and Smart

In times of crisis and emergency, Quezon City’s frontliners keep communities safe and protected. But who ensures that these frontliners remain strong, supported, and ready when called upon to serve?  PLDT and Smart, in partnership with the Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA), recently conducted a holistic stress management workshop for the emergency response frontliners of the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (QC DRRMO) and Quezon City Citizens Services Department (CSD). The initiative reinforces a shared commitment to strengthening resilience and safeguarding the mental health of those on the frontlines of crisis response. This is part of the broader initiative of PLDT and Smart through its #KonektedForResilience advocacy program that focuses on community resilience and disaster preparedness.

The workshop centered on key challenges faced by responders, including burnout, secondhand traumatic stress, and the cumulative emotional toll of emergency work. Participants were guided through practical coping mechanisms such as managing personal stress responses, building healthier habits, and developing strategies to sustain both mental and emotional well-being amid high-pressure environments.

 

For QC DRRMO Head Bianca Perez-Diamante, the initiative is both timely and necessary, given the nature of their work. “Our responders are the ones who face emergencies every single day—from vehicular accidents and trauma cases to rescues during extreme weather conditions. They see things that most people are not prepared to handle, and it takes a toll on them. This workshop is important because it reminds them that they are human too—that they also feel tired, overwhelmed, and affected by what they experience. It gives them the space to pause, to breathe, and to acknowledge their own vulnerabilities,” Perez-Diamante said.

 

Acting Chief Administrative Officer Estelita Mañalac of the QC Citizens Service Department, who is one of the participants from the workshop, highlighted the value of self-care in effective public service. “One of the most important things I learned is that you have to take care of yourself first before you can truly help others. This workshop gave me a better understanding of stress and how it affects people at all levels. It also equipped me with ideas that I can share with my staff so we can better support one another. As frontliners, we need to remain resilient and manage our stress properly so we can continue to serve effectively, especially during emergencies,” Mañalac said.

 

From the perspective of responders on the ground, the workshop provided practical and personal insights. Another participant, Jeramen Devisfruto, who is the Acting Deputy of Team Delta Emergency Medical Services under Operations, reflected on the importance of mental stability in their line of work. “I realized how important it is to have stable mental health because it directly affects how we respond to emergencies. When your mind is not okay, your body follows, and it becomes difficult to do your job properly. This workshop helped me understand how I can better manage panic, anxiety, and personal challenges so I can continue to perform my duties and support others effectively,” Devisfruto said.

 

Beyond mental health support, the initiative also introduced opportunities for additional livelihood. A brief segment by Smart NCR Wireless Sales highlighted the Smart Retailer program, which enables individuals to earn extra income by selling prepaid load and digital services within their communities. For frontliners and emergency responders, this presents a flexible and accessible way to supplement their income, further supporting their overall well-being and financial resilience.

 

PLDT and Smart underscored their commitment to supporting those who serve at the frontlines. PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Engagement Assistant Vice President and Head Stephanie V. Orlino emphasized the broader purpose of the initiative. “At PLDT and Smart, we believe in creating safer spaces not only for communities but also for the people who serve them. Our frontliners and first responders play a critical role in delivering aid during times of crisis, and while they continuously provide help to others, it is equally important that they receive the support they need. This workshop is a testament to our continued commitment to their well-being, particularly in ensuring that their mental health is cared for as they carry out their vital work.”

 

These initiatives reflect PLDT and Smart’s commitment to holistic community support— reaffirming the importance of mental health care as an integral part of disaster response, aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being, 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Confidence through Connectivity: PLDT Enables Parañaque MSMEs to go Digital

For Fel Roslin, co-owner of Felchie’s Ice Cream House in Parañaque, modernizing the business was not just about adopting new tools—it was about choosing the right partner. "I told my wife that we had to partner with a company that is accessible and dependable," Roslin shared. “With technology now supporting marketing, accounting, and operations, it really matters who you work with.”

That perspective reflected the spirit of MSME Day in Parañaque City, which gathered local entrepreneurs—from early-stage founders to business owners ready to scale—to help bridge current business challenges with the demands of an increasingly digital marketplace.

Led by the PLDT Group’s B2B arm, PLDT Enterprise, MSME Day in Parañaque City featured a learning session on PLDT and Smart’s #BeCyberSmart module to help entrepreneurs strengthen their online safety as they grow their digital presence. Parañaque business owners also took part in discussions covering financial literacy, business messaging solutions such as the Tanay App and A2P messaging, and practical content creation strategies through a session on Reels as effective sales tools.

The event also underscored strong support from the local government led by Mayor Edwin Olivarez, alongside leaders from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Parañaque, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening the city’s MSME sector.

"Today, we are celebrating MSME Day here in Parañaque and across the entire country, honoring the entrepreneurs who serve as the true heart and engine of our local economy," said Mayor Edwin Olivarez. "We all know that running a business is no small feat. It takes sacrifice and risk. We faced years of uncertainty during the pandemic, but we overcame it. We remain committed to supporting the entrepreneurs who serve as the heart of our economy."

Building on this shared commitment to supporting local enterprises, John Eric “Chet” Alviz, PLDT Enterprise Vice President and Head of SME Growth Marketing, Digital and Trade, emphasized the role of technology in enabling growth. “Digital tools are no longer optional,” Alviz noted. "Today, they are the essential gear every small business needs to stay in the game and protect their livelihood."

Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart, highlighted the role of collaboration with local government units. "Working closely with LGUs like Parañaque is critical. We meet owners where they are— whether they’re building their online presence or strengthening their cybersecurity—to help ensure that learning translates into real business growth.”

"This event really helped me appreciate why consistency in planning and creating Reels matters so much—it’s about taking full advantage of being visible on social media," said workshop participant Catherine Joy Cardano, CEO and co-founder of AirLiving Plus Real Estate Management Service. "This Parañaque MSME Day is the very first event of its kind I’ve attended, and I was excited to learn how to navigate social media marketing while protecting my business online. Partnering with the companies here is exactly what we need to help our business flourish."

This initiative underscores PLDT and Smart’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Anchored in strong public-private collaboration, PLDT and Smart continue working with partners to help ensure that digital tools translate into real opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

Smart Backs Active Living as Filipinos Embrace Healthier Lifestyles

From early morning jogs to weekend fun runs, more Filipinos are embracing active lifestyles as health and wellness become a growing priority in everyday life. Running, in particular, has long been a go to physical activity in the country — accessible, inclusive, and deeply rooted in community culture — making it a natural choice for individuals seeking both physical and mental well being.

 

This shift towards more intentional, health focused living reflects a broader movement among Filipinos to stay active, connected, and environmentally conscious; increasingly supported by organizations that recognize the role of technology, community, and sustainability in driving positive change.

 

“Our initiatives reflect our belief that progress must be purposeful and sustainable. As we continue to expand our 5G infrastructure and deliver world class connectivity, we are also committed to ensuring that our growth supports healthier communities and a greener planet,” said Marjorie Garrovillo, FVP and Co OIC at Smart Communications, Inc (Smart).

 

Smart continues to champion initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles while advancing environmental responsibility and inclusive digital progress across the country.

 

Through strategic partnerships and community driven programs, Smart supports platforms that encourage physical activity, meaningful engagement, and eco conscious action. Among these initiatives are fitness and wellness platforms and events such as the GCash Run, which brought together running, digital innovation, and environmental advocacy. By supporting initiatives that integrate active living with technology enabled engagement, Smart reinforces its long standing commitment to environmental stewardship and its support for initiatives that contribute to climate resilience and the transition towards a circular economy.

 

Enabling healthier lifestyles through sustainable connectivity

 

Smart’s support for wellness led initiatives is complemented by its continued investment in next generation connectivity. The company is rapidly expanding its 5G network nationwide to build a more efficient, reliable, and future ready digital ecosystem that supports evolving lifestyle needs.

 

As 5G adoption accelerates across the Philippines, Smart has reported an 88% year on year increase in full 5G traffic. This growth is driven by the rising number of 5G capable devices on the network, which increased 35% year on year to reach 11.2 million units, now accounting for 19% of total handsets.

The wider availability of affordable 5G devices, combined with ongoing network optimization, is enabling more Filipinos to access faster speeds, lower latency, and more responsive digital experiences — capabilities that increasingly support health and fitness platforms, real time communication, and everyday digital activities.

 

Award winning network experience

 

Smart’s continued focus on network excellence has earned global recognition. The company was recently recognized by Ookla® for providing the Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency in the Philippines.

 

Based on Speedtest Intelligence® data, Smart achieved a Video Score of 78.60, allowing subscribers to enjoy seamless 1080p streaming and near instant playback. The Best Mobile Latency award underscores the network’s responsiveness, which is a critical advantage for real time applications such as streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and digital tools that support active and connected lifestyles.

 

As Filipinos continue to prioritize health, movement, and sustainability, Smart remains committed to enabling progress that goes beyond connectivity by empowering communities to live better today while helping build a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow.