Mulanay: Finding ‘Paraiso’ Through Digital Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities

The town of Mulanay in Quezon province has come a long way from the underserved rural community portrayed in the 1996 award-winning film Mulanay: Sa Pusod ng Paraiso, directed by Gil Portes. While the movie depicted a village lacking in infrastructure and a community deeply rooted in tradition and reluctant to embrace modern medicine, present-day Mulanay is now a first-class municipality where diversity and inclusion thrive, opening opportunities for residents in challenging circumstances such as persons with disabilities.

These opportunities pave the way for programs that uplift Mulanay’s most vulnerable sectors, including a partnership that the local government, through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) office, forged with ATRIEV, PLDT, and Smart to train residents with disabilities on the basics of entrepreneurship and the use of digital innovations to grow their businesses. This partnership aligns with the PLDT Group’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Advocacy through Technology (IDEATe) program.

 

“As a father to a child with autism, I understand the challenges that persons with disabilities face,” said Mulanay Mayor Aristotle Aguirre. “That is why we are working with like-minded organizations to provide them with digital skills and entrepreneurial opportunities, so they can start or grow their own businesses and thrive in today’s economy.”

 

Conducted by ATRIEV and also supported by NORFIL Foundation, more than 20 persons with disabilities and carers of persons with impairments attended the Digital Business Basics Training (DBBT). The eight-day workshop was divided into two modules. The first focused on starting a business, covering essential topics such as branding, connecting with target markets, fund sourcing, and pricing and costing strategies.

 

Sergio Macarang, 55, saw his clients dwindle after he got into a vehicular accident that limited his mobility. He was a construction foreman prior to the accident. He turned to selling medical masks and wipes to supplement his income. And now, he wants to grow his business.

 

“You need careful planning,” Macarang said. “You have to learn proper costing, so you don’t end up selling your products at a loss.”

 

Pricing was also the most important skill for 26-year-old Jerald Regencia, a reseller of beauty products born with physical impairments. “I was intimidated at first because I have forgotten my Math,” he recalled. “But I brushed up on my Math skills to ensure that I am earning from my business. You have to factor in all your expenses.”

The second module gave participants hands-on experience using digital tools and social media platforms to expand their reach, such as setting up Facebook and Tiktok accounts and creating content for their pages.

 

“I was even able to design a logo for my business using a mobile app,” Macarang added. “Through Facebook and other online platforms, I can now reach more people and potential customers. My business is no longer limited to foot traffic on our street — it has grown beyond our community.”

 

“Selling online has really made things easier for me,” Regencia shared. “Before, I had to personally visit my suki to show them new items or ask if they wanted to order again — which wasn’t easy because of my condition. Now, I can just promote my products online and connect with them through messaging apps.”

 

Through inclusive initiatives like this, the stories of persons with disabilities in Mulanay are moving toward brighter chapters. Equipped with digital skills and business know-how, their journeys are only just beginning.

 

“At PLDT and Smart, we believe that technology is a powerful equalizer,” said Stephanie Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement Team. “Through programs like IDEATe, we are opening doors for persons with disabilities to participate fully in the digital economy, giving them the tools and opportunities to improve their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.”

IDEATe activities are aligned with PLDT and Smart’s commitment to help the country achieve UNSDG 8 on decent work and economic growth, and UNSDG 10 on reducing inequality by empowering and promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all, including persons with disabilities.

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.

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.

Fastest Growing in PH: Globally Accepted Maya Card Sets New Industry Record

The Maya Card, powered by the #1 Digital Bank App Maya, is the Philippine's fastest-growing prepaid card due to its unmatched ease of use, convenience, safety, and worldwide acceptance.  

Visa, a world leader in digital payments, presented Maya with an award for being the top prepaid card issuer in the country, marking its third consecutive accolade from 2021 to 2023. 

This distinction is a testament to Maya's sustained year-on-year growth and its highest prepaid payment volumes.

 

"We've made it incredibly simple for millions of Filipinos to get a card. This ease of access particularly resonates with the youth, who not only use it for everyday purchases but also as a reliable companion for global travel. It's exciting to see the Maya Card become the fastest-growing card in the Philippines," said Shailesh Baidwan, Group President of Maya and Co-Founder of Maya Bank.  

 

The Ultimate in Convenience and Flexibility 

Getting a Maya Card is very easy, reflecting Maya's commitment to user convenience. Customers with an upgraded account can obtain a virtual and physical card through the app without the need for additional documents and link it seamlessly to their wallets. Users simply need to navigate to the “Cards” section within the Maya app to place their order. 

 

The virtual card instantly opens a world of online shopping and the physical card doubles as an ATM card, enabling effortless payments for daily needs. Its broad compatibility across both online shops and brick-and-mortar stores demonstrates its unmatched versatility. 

 

Designed with a minimalist and secure aesthetic, the Maya Card features the user's unique @username instead of the full name and card number, adding a personal touch without compromising security. 

 

Global Acceptance 

Once activated and linked to the user's wallet, the Maya Card is accepted worldwide, offering a seamless payment solution both in the Philippines and abroad. This global acceptance proves invaluable especially for freelancers and travelers, facilitating easy access to funds. 

 

The Maya Card unlocks global shopping at over 80 million merchants and ATM access, with instant international activation – no call to customer support is needed. Wherever they are in the world. users are kept informed and in charge with real-time transaction alerts directly through the Maya app.  

 

Rewarding Personalized Experience   

The Maya Card’s unique strength also lies in its rewarding digital banking services. Using it for everyday payments allows customers to earn up to 14% interest rate per annum, credited daily to their savings accounts.  

 

Moreover, frequent card usage also strengthens the user's financial footprint, leading to better opportunities for instant borrowing and higher credit limits within the app.   

   

Innovating further, Maya provides personalized card options offering co-branded editions, such as the FIFA Women's World Cup and Mobile Legends, alongside the all-in-one student ID of Ateneo De Manila University.  

   

Maya is the #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines, with Maya, the #1 Digital Bank, and Maya Business, the #1 Omni-Channel Payment Processor. More information about Maya is available at maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Keep posted on news and updates by following @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Smart ‘Creativity Camp’ Inspires Artistry, Love for Sustainability among Mindanao Students

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) helped welcome students to the school opening activities at the University of Mindanao (UM) and the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU), with its Smart Creativity Camp. The fun-filled events, run by Smart as part of a broad program to engage young people nationwide, enables students to bring out the artist in them as they learn more about sustainability.

University President Fr. Guillrey Anthony "Ernald" Andal, SJ, shared, “ADZU has been active in promoting sustainability, and one of our efforts is encouraging students to bring reusable water containers. We are happy that Smart hosted this Creativity Camp, enabling aspiring artists to personalize their water containers, showcase their creativity and learn the value of our sustainability programs at the same time.”

Bringing their own metal beverage containers, students trooped to the colorful booths to join the camp. Using their own tumblers as canvas and art materials provided by Smart, the students personalized their beverage containers with designs that represent their passions and their vision of a sustainable future.

“Smart empowers the youth to pursue their passions. Our creativity camp allows them to express their emotions through visual arts. Through their creations, they tell us about their passion for sustainable practices,” said Melvin Consunji Nubla, FVP and Head of Smart Go-To-Market and Subscriber Management.

“Art is very important and joining this camp has enhanced my creativity. It also made me realize that we can create art using non-hazardous materials which are safe for the environment,” said 18-year-old UM Fine Arts student, Marylove Eclarinal.

To motivate students, especially those who feel intimidated handling a paintbrush, Smart invited Davao-based multi-disciplinary artist, Goldie Siglos, to hold a workshop on basic design techniques for the UM students. In Zamboanga, resident artist Bel Garcia conducted an art class for the ADZU students. With their help, the students crafted unique artworks using water-based paint and custom stickers from Smart.

Smart will continue to roll out its Creativity Camp to more schools, to encourage more students to unleash their passion for the arts and at the same time, raise awareness on sustainability. The Smart Creativity Camp is part of the PLDT group’s broad range of activities that empowers and builds bridges of collaboration across sectors and communities towards a sustainable future.

Internet of Things Summit Philippines on August 17 and 18, 2018

Now on its third year, the Internet of Things Summit Philippines is an annual gathering and showcase of IoT technology in the country. It is undeniable that technology makes the world simpler. People today have more positive view of how technology is affecting their lives. Based on the survey by Nielsen, more than 74 percent feel that new technology makes their lives easier. People are not just using technology to communicate but they also use it in making transactions. It is technology that gives businesses the opportunities to go beyond. It also help in making cities stay connected and smart. With the rise of technology, Internet of Things or simply "IoT" is indeed the “Next Big Thing” in the world of innovation. The 3rd IoT Summit will be held on August 17 and 18, 2018 at the Megatrade Hall 3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. The summit will focus on how we can maximize our knowledge in technology related to Internet of Things. It includes a conference divided into six tracks: Connected City, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Privacy and Security, Machine Learning and Wearables with experts from across the industry led by USEC. Monchito Ibrahim from the Department of Information and Communucations Technology.

Aside from the conference, they conducted an IoT Robotics Workshop last July 14 at the PLDT Innolab, Mandaluyong City, facilitated by PhilRobotics and Egizmo Mechatronix. The course outline of the workshop includes Introduction to Arduino, Arduino Programming Workshop, PBOT Programming, Building the Sumobot and Sumobot Battle. This workshop aims to give the knowledge to learn the basics of building a Sumobot in just a day. Participated in by kids and adults with zero knowledge in Robot programming and Arduino. 

The 3rd IoT Summit Philippines is organized by Red Wizard Events Technology and presented by Smart, PLDT Enterprise, Globaltronics, MiGuard and Unionbank of the Philippines. This is also co-presented by Accenture Technology, United Neon, ChatbotPH and Intel in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology, National ICT Confederation of the Philippines and IoT Technology Inc.

For more information about the conference you check www.iotsummit.ph or call the secretariat at (02) 218 9023 or at 09179048777 and 09209734926