HONOR 400 Now Available Nationwide with Smart Signature Plan Plus 1499

Manila, Philippines, September 26, 2025 – Leading global smart devices provider HONOR Philippines has officially announced the availability of the new HONOR 400 in Smart Stores nationwide and via the Smart Online Shop, bundled with Smart Signature Plan Plus 1499.  
 
Following the successful launch of the HONOR 400 last June 17, the excitement and demand from the public showed no signs of slowing down. In fact, the AI-powered HONOR 400 sold out within just four days after its availability was announced. Today, HONOR proudly brings the much-anticipated HONOR 400 to Smart, one of the country’s leading telecommunications service providers. 

“We’re excited to make the HONOR 400 available through Smart’s Signature Plan Plus 1499. With unbeatable perks, free accessories, and ViLTE support for clearer connections, this offering gives Filipinos the best value to upgrade their mobile lifestyle,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. 

The HONOR 400 offers a sleek design, AI-powered performance, and seamless 5G connectivity—now made more accessible with Smart’s best-in-value Signature Plan Plus. Smart customers can choose from its three dynamic colorways: Desert Gold, Tidal Blue, or Midnight Black.    
 
Every purchase of HONOR 400 with Smart Signature Plan Plus 1499 comes with a FREE JISULIFE Handheld Pro 1S, making it an even smarter deal. Freebies will be available until September 30, 2025, only.   
 

Smart Signature Plan Plus 1499 Inclusions: 
 

• 40 GB Data for 6 Months and/ 120 GB Data for 6 Months   
• Unlimited 5G Data for 12 months 
• Unlimited AllNet Calls & Texts 
• Unlimited Landline Calls (excluding special numbers) 
• Free Netflix Mobile Plan or ₱149 off on existing plan 
• Access to Postpaid Perks 
• Extra 20 GB FREE data for 6 months 

 

The HONOR 400 is available at a total device cost of ₱19,700 only, with the added convenience of 0% downpayment when purchased using all major credit cards in the country.  
 
This makes owning the latest HONOR smartphone more accessible than ever, giving Filipinos flexible payment options while enjoying premium technology and exclusive Smart Signature Plan Plus perks. 
 
HONOR 400: Smarter Connections with Smart ViLTE  
 
Now available with Smart, the HONOR 400 takes everyday communication to the next level with Smart’s Video-over-LTE (ViLTE) feature, exclusive for Smart Postpaid subscribers. With this, Smart users can enjoy: 

• High-definition video calls with sharper clarity and more reliable connections compared to traditional voice calls 
• Seamless and stable end-to-end connections, ensuring uninterrupted conversations 
• No need for third-party apps—simply enable Smart VoLTE and use HONOR’s default Phone app 

To maximize this feature, ViLTE calls are supported only between two Smart users, with at least one being a Smart Postpaid subscriber. The device must also be updated to version 9.0.0.165

The HONOR 400 with Smart Signature Plan Plus 1499 is now available at Smart Stores nationwide and via the Smart Online Shop: https://bit.ly/Smart_H400_PR 
 
For more information about the HONOR Philippiness, visit and follow HONOR Philippines’ social media pages on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

Load Up, Level Up Smart Supports Sustainable Livelihoods through Digital E-Loading

For many Filipinos, selling mobile load is more than just a side hustle, it’s a lifeline. To make mobile load more accessible through the Hatchiko app, mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is enabling PLDT Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TELESCOOP) members to earn extra income through a streamlined, digital e-loading experience.

“At Smart, we believe that technology should uplift lives,” said Smart Assistant Vice President and Head of Key Accounts Modern Trade Christian So. “By making load accessible through Hatchiko and TELESCOOP, we’re helping everyday earners build small but more sustainable side businesses, supported by our expanding 4G and 5G network.”

The Hatchiko app simplifies e-loading operations, allowing users to manage transactions, monitor earnings, and serve customers—all from their mobile phones. It’s a practical way to supplement income and reach more customers without needing a storefront. Hatchiko offers a range of services for its users, including solutions to integrate platforms, manage bulk transactions, or process e-load.

“Our goal is to reshape how load reselling works by offering a digital platform that simplifies the entire process,” said Bill Vergel Mendoza, President of Hatchiko. “Through the Hatchiko app, we’re empowering individuals with tools that make loading more efficient, transparent, and scalable—so they can manage their transactions with ease and grow their businesses sustainably.”

TELESCOOP, a long-standing cooperative serving PLDT employees and affiliates, has embraced digital transformation to better serve its members. Making Smart load accessible through Hatchiko adds a new income stream to its growing suite of digital services.

“This gives our members a meaningful opportunity to grow their income,” said Benedicto Portugal, Chairperson of TELESCOOP. “It’s a small shift with a big impact—especially for those looking to build something of their own.”

Smart e-load has been one of the fastest selling products for resellers and retailers across the country since it was introduced in 2003. A world-first innovation in mobile communication, Smart e-load marked the birth of prepaid services, democratizing access to mobile communication for Filipinos and enabling easier communication across the nation and overseas.

As Smart continues to expand its network nationwide, this initiative reflects its commitment to inclusive growth—where technology becomes a tool not just for connection, but for progress.

Tanay MSMEs Tackle Tech Tools to Grow and #BeCyberSmart

Micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Tanay, Rizal are learning about tools and solutions that can boost their businesses, while also taking vital steps to stay safe online and #BeCyberSmart.

Through a learning session organized by PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), small business owners from the community learned about PLDT Enterprise’s solutions that can enable better customer communication and expand internet access, empowering them to operate more efficiently and reach wider markets.

“As we celebrate MSME Month, our goal is to empower entrepreneurs with innovative solutions that not only strengthen their operations, but also protect their digital presence,” said Rafael P. Davila, PLDT Enterprise SMBiz Luzon Head. “Through PLDT Enterprise’s products and services, we equip MSMEs with the right tools to grow and secure their businesses in an increasingly digital world.”

A key part of the program was the #BeCyberSmart segment, where business owners learned how to identify and avoid online threats such as phishing, text scams, love scams, and social engineering. These practical lessons emphasized how digital safety is vital for building customer trust and maintaining uninterrupted business operations.

“We want to build confidence among local entrepreneurs, as they navigate the digital landscape,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement Team at PLDT and Smart. “Through our #BeCyberSmart program, we are enabling business owners to make smarter, safer decisions online and protect their businesses and customers.”

For many participants, the learning session was an eye-opening experience.

“The #BeCyberSmart session taught us how to spot suspicious websites and protect our online accounts,” shared Carmela Centeno, Operational Manager at Casablanca Tanay Hotel and Café. “It reminded us to always think before we click and to be more vigilant when conducting business online. This knowledge is crucial as we continue to operate and grow in the digital space.”

PLDT and Smart’s efforts to promote digital inclusion and safety support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By equipping MSMEs with the tools and knowledge to succeed and stay secure online, they contribute to building a more inclusive and resilient digital economy.

Innovation that Lasts, Excellence that Unfolds: Get the OPPO Find N5 Exclusively on Smart Postpaid

OPPO’s newest flagship foldable - the OPPO Find N5, is now available in the Philippines exclusively first via Smart Postpaid. The OPPO Find N5 is the world’s thinnest and lightest book-style foldable smartphone in the market today, setting an unprecedented standard for mobile foldables by blending elegant design, durability, and strong connectivity in one sleek device. 

Elegance in Every Fold

Experience unmatched sophistication with the OPPO Find N5 that is designed for comfort and mobility, making it suitable for people who are always on the move. Its ultra-light and slim form fits effortlessly in your hand or pocket, making back-to-back meetings or working between locations a breeze. The OPPO Find N5 is also built with aerospace-grade Titanium and impressive water-resistance (IPX6, IPX8, IPX9), made to handle the demands of daily life. 

The OPPO Find N5 also features a stunning 8.12” inner display and a 6.62” outer screen, both equipped with ProXDR visuals and an almost invisible crease for immersive, uninterrupted use. The OPPO Find N5 also lets you seamlessly juggle three apps at once, delivering incredible multitasking power like you've never experienced before. 

Multitasking Refined

Work smarter with the ability to run three apps simultaneously with the OPPO Find N5, as it adapts to your workflow with its desktop-grade multitasking in a compact foldable form. Now, you can review reports, take video calls, or browse data all at the same time with ease.

The OPPO Find N5 also boosts your productivity even further  with the  O+ Connect, allowing effortless file sharing, drag-and-drop editing across IOS devices. This allows you to seamlessly transition in switching devices. 

Power That Keeps Up

The OPPO Find N5 is built to complement your packed schedule and multiple tasks. With its Snapdragon® 8 Elite processor, the OPPO Find N5 delivers top-tier performance for multitasking and even running heavy files and apps you use for your job. It  also comes with 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, perfect for all the files you need, especially on-the-go.

The OPPO Find N5 also boasts the largest battery for  any foldable smartphone with its massive 5,600mAh Silicon-Carbon battery - well suited for long-haul business flights or trips. 

Exclusive First with Smart Postpaid

The OPPO Find N5 is now available through Smart with a variety of data-packed Smart Postpaid and Infinity plans designed for dynamic users. To celebrate the arrival and milestone partnership, Smart Postpaid subscribers and Smart Infinity members can enjoy these exclusive perks: 

For the first 40 Smart Infinity subscribers:

30,000 Mabuhay Miles

A special dining voucher

For the first 30 Smart Postpaid subscribers:

10,000 Mabuhay Miles

All Smart purchases include:

1-year extended warranty for comprehensive device protection

A free pair of OPPO Enco X2 earbuds

Unlock tailored data solutions and explore exclusive offers on the OPPO Find N5 at your nearest Smart Store. Get your hands on the future of mobile productivity.

To learn more about Smart, visit www.smart.com.ph. For more information about the OPPO Find N5, visit www.oppo.com/ph.

More Growth for Filipino Entrepreneurs with Smart e-load

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with D One Legacy PH Corp to enable more growth for Filipino entrepreneurs and expand access to e-load and telco services nationwide.

Aside from that, this partnership also provides D One Legacy PH Corp members with an additional source of income by enabling them to offer Smart’s value-packed prepaid products to their customers.

"Our collaboration with Smart Communications is more than just a business venture; it is the foundation for financial empowerment and entrepreneurial growth for Filipinos across the country," said Louie Bantigui, Founder, CEO, and President of D One Legacy PH Corp. "We are driven by the mission to provide accessible, profitable, and future-forward business opportunities that allow individuals to take control of their financial futures. This partnership represents a stepping stone for countless Filipinos who are ready to explore the digital marketplace and thrive in it."

An emerging company committed to reshaping the health, wellness, and digital industries in the Philippines, D One Legacy PH Corp continues to provide its members with business initiatives to create profitable ventures, such as selling e-load.

Smart e-load has been one of the fastest selling products for retailers since it was introduced in 2003. A world-first innovation in mobile communication, Smart e-load marked the birth of prepaid services, democratizing access to mobile communication for Filipinos and enabling easier communication across the nation and overseas.

“Our partnership with D One Legacy PH Corp strengthens our mission to empower Filipino entrepreneurs by providing innovative e-loading solutions. By combining Smart’s reliable mobile services with D One legacy’s dynamic business network, we are creating new income opportunities and expanding access to digital connectivity nationwide,” said Jesus “JM” Miguel Jr., National Key Account Manager at Smart Communications.

“This partnership also enables us to provide convenient customer access to prepaid load and help D One Legacy PH Corp achieve their growth targets as they venture in the e-loading business with Smart,” said Christian So, Assistant Vice President and OIC-Head of National Key Accounts at Smart.

Alongside expanding access to e-load, Smart also continuously expands its mobile network, covering 97% of the population nationwide, enabling Filipinos to be more productive, entertained, and stay connected with its 4G/LTE and 5G network, allowing them to access their essential productivity, entertainment, gaming, and other favorite apps on the go. 

These initiatives are in keeping with PLDT and Smart's commitment to narrowing the digital divide and enabling access to communications to more Filipinos across the country, contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly on SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. 

Customers Enjoy Bigger, More Exciting Rewards with PLDT, Smart, and Maya at SM Store

Shoppers can enjoy bigger and more exciting rewards during all of SM Store’s 3-Day Sale schedules in 2024 nationwide from the country’s largest integrated network provider PLDT Inc. (PLDT), the fastest mobile network Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), and the all-in-one money app Maya.

“Our partnership with SM Store has enabled us to delight our customers and elevate their customer experience, serving them with rewards that help them meet their connectivity and technology needs at home or on-the-go,” said Chito M. Franco, Consumer Sales VP and Head of Key Accounts at PLDT and Smart.

From March 15 to 17, shoppers can enjoy these benefits at SM Bataan, Batangas, Bicutan, Cebu, Calamba, SM Center Dagupan, SM Center Muntinlupa, SM Center Pasig, SM Center Sangandaan, SM Center Tuguegarao Downtown, Cubao, Dasmarinas, Estancia, Fairview, Iloilo, Makati, Marilao, Puerto Princesa, Quiapo, Sorsogon, Sta. Mesa, Tanza, Tarlac, Southmall, Taytay, and Telabastagan.

“SM Store is happy to have PLDT, Smart, and Maya as our partners in achieving our goal to make the shopping experience of our customers more convenient, exciting, and fun,” said Dhinno Francis S. Tiu, EVP and Operations and Sales Support Head at SM Store.

Mobile customers can purchase P1,000-worth of Smart prepaid products to get a chance to win a Smart Prepaid 5G smartphone kit during the raffle. They can also enjoy a 12% discount on the Call and Text Card 500, and 8% off on CTC 300 and electronic load 100.

Meanwhile, PLDT Home customers will be able to get a free installation (worth P3,600) when they successfully apply for Fiber Plan 1399 and up. Maya users, on the other hand, can get a chance to win all-expense paid trip to Boracay or Palawan for four when they use Maya to pay at SM. They can get raffle entries when they spend at least Php100, or when they cash in for free up to P10,000.

SM is also raffling off P10,000 shopping money to a lucky customer who will purchase any amount from SM Store during the promo period. Customers will also be entitled to play “What’s in the Bag” for more goodies and prizes.

Shoppers can monitor official SM Store and Smart social media accounts for the announcement of other 3-day sale dates and locations.

PLDT, Smart, ATRIEV hold digital training for persons with disabilities in Cebu

PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) conducted an eight-day Digital Business Basics Training (DBBT) for persons with disabilities in Mandaue City, Cebu. The training was done in collaboration with non-profit organization ATRIEV, Voice Philippines, and the Mandaue City Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO).

Under their Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Advocacy through Technology (IDEATe) program, PLDT and Smart partnered with ATRIEV, or Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation Integration and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired, to expand the reach of this digital training across the country and upskill more entrepreneurs with disabilities, enabling them to participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

“In a world full of judgment, it may be challenging for persons with disabilities to establish their own businesses, but I salute our DBBT graduates’ willingness to learn and improve their livelihood. Through IDEATe, PLDT and Smart ensure to support persons with disabilities in navigating through the world of business enabled by technology,” said Lailane H. Go, Senior Manager, Regional Customer Development at Smart.

Helen Ortega, a tuberculosis survivor, expressed her gratitude for being part of this initiative. “As someone who is unfamiliar with online selling and digital tools, this training undoubtedly equipped me with skills to improve my small business. This is a great opportunity for us, and I thank ATRIEV and its partners for making this happen,” she said.

A total of 27 participants, who included individuals with physical and psychosocial impairments, learned about various digital tools and applications that they can use in growing their businesses online. Additionally, the training also covered e-commerce platforms, social media marketing, content creation, internet safety, and an introduction to the Maya Business App, helping them fully embrace digitalization in their businesses.

“LGU Mandaue City values the welfare of its people, especially those from vulnerable groups. We thank our partners for helping us reach our goal of capacitating persons with disabilities in our city and helping them become productive individuals,” said Dr. Michael Allan O. Pielago, Mandaue City PDAO Head.

This initiative under PLDT Group’s pioneering inclusion program, IDEATe, aligns with its commitment to helping the country achieve UNSDG No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and UNSDG No. 10: Reduced Inequalities by empowering and promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all, including persons with disabilities. IDEATe was a finalist at the 2024 Global Mobile (GLOMO) Awards, the connectivity industry’s most prestigious accolade, judged by the telco sector’s most prominent experts.

PLDT, Smart Reinforce Mental Mealth Well-Being of Passerelles Numériques PH’s Scholars and Faculty

PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) organized a psychological first aid (PFA) training for over 50 scholars and faculty of Passerelles Numériques Philippines (PNPh). The training session was facilitated by millennial psychologist Riyan Portuguez in-person at Smart’s Regional Office in Cebu.

“At PLDT and Smart, we are committed to using our resources and reach to drive meaningful change. By equipping the youth and educators with crucial PFA skills, we hope to de-stigmatize conversations around mental health while building more empathetic and resilient digital communities in the Philippines,” said Marylou Gocotano, PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management Visayas Relations Head.

PNPh is a Cebu-based non-profit organization that provides scholarships in IT-related fields to select youth who come from underprivileged backgrounds.

“On behalf of PNPh and our country representative, Luchi Flores, we thank PLDT and Smart for this meaningful partnership that focuses on promoting mental health awareness among our scholars. Through this Psychological First Aid training, our scholars gained a deeper understanding of how they can extend help to their friends, family members, or fellow scholars who are dealing with mental health-related concerns, making our community a safe space for all,” said Alreen Omang, PNPh Partnerships and External Relations Officer.

A fundamental part of the PLDT Group’s advocacy to promote and encourage digital wellness, the PFA training equipped the student-scholars and faculty members with skills to provide initial support to peers experiencing emotional distress. It upskilled participants with practical stress management, referral techniques, and various techniques to provide initial psychological support.

Mark Kevin Chavez, a first-year college scholar taking up Associate in Computer Technology in Software Development at the University of San Jose Recoletos said he is grateful for the chance to participate in the PFA training. “This motivated me to continue taking care of myself and my mental well-being, as well as provide proper support to others with mental health needs, so that we can all be better every day,” he added.

This mental health training for PNPH scholars and faculty is part of PLDT and Smart’s sustained digital wellness campaign, focused on responsible online behavior and emotional resilience. These initiatives help underscore PLDT and Smart’s contribution to the Philippines’ attainment of UN Sustainable Development Goal #3: Good Health and Well-being.

Smart Powers 7-Eleven Run 2024 to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle for Filipinos

PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) powered 7-Eleven’s Run 2024 staged simultaneously in three major cities across the country – Manila, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro last weekend.

Smart has been the exclusive telco partner of the 7-Eleven Run -- which usually averages ten categories ranging from 1KM to 42KM for run enthusiasts of all levels – for the past seven years.

“In this year’s 7-Eleven Run, we are happy to provide 5G and fiber-fast internet at the three serving sites of this year’s run in Manila, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro enabling our participants, partners, and guests to seamlessly connect to the internet, post their photos, videos hassle-free, and share their fun experience during the event using our leveled-up PLDT & Smart wireless networks,” said Chito M. Franco, Consumer Sales VP and Head of Key Accounts at PLDT and Smart.

Runners were also able to visit the Smart booths equipped with charging stations, a lounge area to rest, and participate in fun activities to win some special giveaways.

PLDT and Smart customer Shaid-Ali Mohamad from Marawi City is an avid 7-Eleven Run participant. He joined the 16KM category in Cagayan de Oro. “This year, I convinced my wife to join me. Actually, last year, I also participated in the fun run in Manila. I joined the 7-Eleven Run for health reasons, since we are not getting any younger. The second reason is to bond with family and friends, or meet new people as part of the running community,” he said.

Iloilo runner Dr. Faye Palmares said that running early in the morning brings her joy. “It refreshes you and instills a sense of tranquility. We purchased as a group and registered through the 7-Eleven CliQQ Mobile App. My running experience was very calm, and I felt very safe, which is quite rare in our running events, so I appreciate 7-Eleven for the great experience."

From supporting the 7-Eleven Run before the pandemic, and when the event transitioned into a virtual run during the COVID-19 lockdown era, until finally making a comeback for a face-to-face event once the restrictions eased, Smart’s partnership with 7-Eleven Run has enabled the telco to promote an active lifestyle to its customers, particularly at a time when health and wellness have become such an important aspect of their lives.

“We are grateful to have Smart as our constant partner even beyond the 7-Eleven Run, ensuring that we can help provide the telco needs of our customers and elevate their experience in our stores,” said Jose C. Ang, Jr., General Merchandise Head at Philippine Seven Corp, the local licensee of 7-Eleven.

This partnership also underscores Smart and its parent company PLDT’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainability Development Goal #3: ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all. 

PLDT, Smart, DA-ATI Launch Innovative Tech Tool for Farmers

Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT) and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc (Smart), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI), have launched an initiative that aims to provide tech access to farmers, especially in far-flung areas, enabling them to harness technology in pursuit of livelihood.

As part of its Digital Farmers Program (DFP), PLDT and Smart’s award-winning digital inclusion program for farmers in partnership with DA, the telco launched FarmTech, a tech-driven farmers training kit designed to empower and equip farmer groups and agri-coops in their digital literacy training programs for their farmer members even those in remote areas.

Receiving the very first FarmTech packages were two affiliate farm groups, Myriad Farms of Guimba, Nueva Ecija, and Samahan ng mga Pangulo ng Magsasaka of Morong, Rizal.

Each FarmTech package includes a tablet, 10 smartphones, a Smart Bro Pocket Wifi with Smart Prepaid load cards, an outdoor projector and projector screen, a rechargeable portable sound system, a flash drive containing multimedia learning resources and apps, and DA-ATI learning materials.

“There are a lot of apps and digital solutions we can tap and integrate into the DFP. With the help of PLDT and Smart, these can now reach the farthest corners of the Philippines,” said DA-ATI Dir. Remelyn R. Recoter, adding that she is hopeful that FarmTech would play a key role in encouraging farmers to use technology in their livelihood.

Enabling the digitalization of farmers is PLDT and Smart’s integrated fixed and wireless networks across the country. “We at PLDT and Smart continue to invest in our infrastructure to provide meaningful connections to Filipinos across the country, furthering our livelihood and digital inclusion advocacies, especially for the agricultural sector,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.

“Hand-in-hand with our partners from DA-ATI, we hope to achieve our vision, which is to enable the digital transformation of farmer groups and agri coops all over the country, to build a truly digitally-enabled agriculture sector,” she added.

Part of PLDT and Smart’s long-standing partnership with DA-ATI, FarmTech is the latest addition to DFP, which was established by the PLDT Group and DA-ATI in 2019 to make technology and digital solutions more accessible to Filipino farmers.

Even as a country that relies heavily on its agricultural sector, Filipino farmers are among the commonly marginalized in terms of economics and technology, as many are located in rural areas and unable to pursue further education. Aging farmers also tend to be tech-averse, preferring old-school touchpad phones over smartphones.

Empowering farming communities through digital tools and mobile technologies towards #SustainableAgriculture and #InclusiveGrowth is a key priority of DFP. PLDT and Smart’s efforts to promote inclusive technologies that can help boost livelihood opportunities among farmers and fisherfolk also highlights the Group’s support to the government’s overall digitalization thrust.

This is also in line with the Group’s efforts to help the country achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially UNSDG #1 (No Poverty) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)

Sari-sari Store Owner wins iPhone 15 from Smart and GrowSari

For 36-year-old Grace, her sari-sari store in Quezon City is a way to support the financial needs of her family. A mother of three children, Grace works day and night to ensure that her store is filled with grocery products and additional services such as telco load for her customers.

A sari-sari store vendor for five years, Grace came upon tech-enabled platform GrowSari in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I just saw it on Facebook, it just appeared on my feed, then I installed it on my phone,” she shared. What enticed her the most is the fact that she did not need to spend extra when getting the goods. “I don’t have to pay for additional transportation, it’s free shipping, and they deliver door-to-door. They also suggest additional products that can help me increase my sales,” Grace added, who has been a GrowSari Tindera for three years now.

GrowSari is a business-to-business platform that aims to help millions of sari-sari stores like Grace’s gain access to affordable and on-demand inventory, working capital credit lines, and seamless ordering and delivery of goods through their strong distribution hubs.

Aside from daily groceries, Grace also said that her loading business rakes in income for her store. As trusted telco brands, PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) and TNT continue to serve as a steady source of income for most micro-entrepreneurs. GrowSari has also integrated multiple microservices like telco load, bills payment, e-commerce, WiFi, and other e-services in their portfolio, enabling sari-sari store owners to maximize their capital in one wallet and expand their business.

“Smart and TNT [load] sell really well in our store. We can get up to P3,000 a day from selling load products such as GIGA Video 50 and All Out Surf 20,” she said.

To reward its active sellers like Grace, GrowSari and Smart worked together to launch a raffle promo to delight and inspire them with an iPhone 15 as they enter the new year.

“I did not expect to win this prize,” Grace said during the small awarding ceremony held in her store this month. She shared that it was her first time landing a spot among the top 20 active sellers in GrowSari, and that she just entered once to join the contest. “I am grateful to Smart and GrowSari for this reward,” she added.

Smart has been a partner of GrowSari since 2020, allowing the telco to reach even more customers all over the Philippines through its fast-expanding network of sari-sari stores nationwide.

In its effort to deliver top-class communication services to the millions of Filipinos in the country, PLDT and Smart are relentless in initiating relevant partnerships as part of the PLDT Group’s broader goal to elevate the quality of overall customer experience.

 

Powered by the Philippines’ Fastest and Best Mobile Network

 

The Smart LiveStream App is powered by the Philippines’ fastest and best mobile network, as cited by Ookla, the global leader for mobile and broadband network intelligence. Smart is the first and only Philippine mobile operator to earn such rare and prestigious recognition for three consecutive reporting periods - in Q1-Q2 2022, Q3-Q4 2022, and Q1-Q2 2023. 

 

To know more about the NBTC on the Smart LiveStream App, follow Smart’s official Facebook or go to smart.com.ph/Pages/livestream. 

PLDT and Smart Amplify Grand Sinulog 2024

PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) ramped up the splendor at the Philippines’ grandest festival, Sinulog, in support of the local government of Cebu City and Sinulog Foundation, Inc.

Cebuanos and tourists alike celebrated the 459th Fiesta of Señor Santo Niño in full swing, with the city buzzing with parades, concerts, pageantry, and spirited competitions.

 

“We are committed to honoring the rich heritage and passions of the Cebuanos. We believe in fostering a relationship with our loyal subscribers that extends beyond services - valuing their individuality and catering to their interests. Our aim is to be a part of their journey, not just during the festival, but in all aspects of their digital lifestyle,” said Melvin Consunji Nubla, FVP and Head of Go-To-Market and Subscriber Management at Smart.

 

PLDT and Smart fortified their communication and connectivity services in anticipation of Sinulog, enabling attendees to capture and share memorable moments from the festival.

 

Lovey Genoguin-Ascher, an Overseas Filipino Worker on vacation from Germany expressed her delight due to the reliability of Smart’s signal during the festival. “Smart’s signal was really good. We were able to stay connected and meet with my family members at our designated meeting points. We were also able to share photos and videos on social media,” said Ascher.

 

In addition, PLDT and Smart equipped Cebu media entities and the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu with fast and reliable wired and data connectivity, facilitating the smooth livestreaming of the festival’s mardi gras, masses, solemn foot processions.

 

PLDT and Smart also set up booths at designated points around the city, providing immediate assistance to attendees, ensuring connectivity needs were met throughout the festival.

 

In collaboration with local partner establishments such as restaurants and bars, Smart also offered exclusive perks and discounts to loyal customers, part of continuing efforts to give back to subscribers and enhance their festival experience.

 

Overseeing Smart’s participation in Visayan festivities for nearly a decade, Lloyd Genesiran, Junior Manager and Sinulog Festival Lead of Smart Go-to-Market and Subscriber Management shared, “Our goal has always been to make Smart a meaningful part of Cebu City and its constituents. It's truly rewarding to see our hard work pay off and see the value we add to their Sinulog experience.”

 

PLDT and Smart ensured the spirit of the Sinulog Festival was shared with everyone, on-site and online, part of broader initiatives connecting Filipinos, and as aligned with the Group's commitment to the Government's overall digitalization thrust.