PERSONS with disabilities (PWDs) in Quezon City have become more skilled and knowledgeable in new technologies, enabling them to elevate their existing businesses.
PLDT and Smart, together with Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration, and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired (ATRIEV), NORFIL Foundation, and the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) of Quezon City successfully trained 21 participants from the city, to enhance their digital skills and introduce them to business opportunities.
The training provided these entrepreneurs with insights on how to use forecasting models’ valuable data analytics, allowing them to predict market trends and consumer behavior more accurately. By leveraging this technology, PWD entrepreneurs can make informed decisions, optimize their operations, and tailor their products and services to meet emerging demands. This not only enhances their competitiveness but also contributes to the overall economic growth of the region.
The forecasting tool democratizes information, enabling PWDs to participate fully in the economic landscape. The potential impact on the Philippines is profound, as it promotes inclusivity and harnesses the untapped potential of a segment of the population that has historically faced barriers to economic participation.
“The Quezon City government fully supports inclusion programs not only for persons with disabilities but for all QCitizens as well. We think that the DBBT will be very helpful for persons with disabilities, from preparing to start their business and, eventually, managing a sustainable enterprise. Linked by our shared passion to help improve the lives of persons with disabilities and their families, we are grateful to have supportive partners in PLDT and Smart,” Quezon City PDAO Head Deborah Dacanay shared.
“A big part of PLDT’s mission is to ensure equitable access to technology and connectivity, enabling all Filipinos to leverage digital innovations to improve their lives,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.
The eight-day Digital Business Basics Training (DBBT) provided participants with the knowledge, skills, and attitude they need to manage their finances effectively and start and run successful businesses. Participants learned basic social media marketing and other critical information for starting a business, such as fund sourcing, pricing, and costing. They also learned the basics of branding and identifying their target market using various applications.
“Even as we get older, it is still important to learn new technologies, for our own growth and as big help to improve our small business,” said 57-year-old Rico Lanuza, one of the participants. Another participant, 39-year-old Joel Angelo Gavino, an entrepreneur who used to be an overseas Filipino worker, said, “I’m very happy to be part of this eight-day training. I learned various digital tools that I used to think were hard to learn. With everyone now engaging through social media.”
