MANILA — PLDT Enterprise and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a partnership aimed at empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines. This collaboration is part of USAID's Strengthening Private Enterprises for the Digital Economy (SPEED) project, which aims to accelerate the digitalization of businesses in the MSME sector.
Bringing SPEED to Local Businesses
The SPEED project is designed to help Philippine MSMEs integrate into the country’s expanding digital economy. The initiative focuses on improving digital technology adoption, supporting MSMEs in connecting with e-commerce platforms, and facilitating the use of digital payment systems. It also works to increase consumer awareness and protection in the digital space.
Through this project, USAID aims to contribute to the development of a secure and resilient digital economy in the Philippines, supporting the U.S. government's broader goal of driving the country’s post-pandemic recovery and long-term economic growth.
The initiative goes beyond providing digital tools and connectivity—it seeks to foster sustainable growth for MSMEs, ensuring that even the smallest businesses can thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
PLDT Enterprise’s Role in Empowering MSMEs
As a key player in the Philippines' digital transformation, PLDT Enterprise continues to support MSMEs by providing access to essential digital platforms and technologies. The partnership with USAID reinforces PLDT's ongoing commitment by offering the digital expertise and solutions that small businesses need to navigate today’s evolving economic landscape.
Initiatives like the MSME Day roadshows, held in provinces such as Iloilo, Dipolog, and Pampanga, provide local entrepreneurs with opportunities to explore new digital tools and solutions. Programs such as GoDigital Pilipinas further promote cashless transactions, helping Filipino entrepreneurs embrace digital solutions for business growth.
Amy Lovejoy, Director of Economic Development and Governance at USAID Philippines, emphasized that digital platforms offer MSMEs an opportunity to scale operations, boost efficiency, and unlock growth potential. “USAID’s support signals the U.S. government’s strong commitment to advancing the development of a stronger, more resilient digital economy in the Philippines,” she said.
Jay Lagdameo, Vice President and Head of the Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise, also underscored the significance of the partnership: “Through our partnership with USAID and the SPEED project, we are reaffirming our commitment to help MSMEs succeed in the digital economy. We understand the unique challenges these businesses face, and we are here to provide the digital solutions and support they need to grow and succeed.”
Accelerating Digital Transformation
The USAID SPEED Activity seeks to accelerate the digital transformation of Filipino MSMEs, enabling them to leverage e-commerce and compete in both local and global markets. This initiative is closely aligned with PLDT Enterprise's mission to support MSME growth through reliable, scalable digital solutions tailored to their needs.
“We recognize that MSMEs are the backbone of the Philippine economy, and by empowering them with the right digital tools, we can significantly enhance their growth potential,” added Lovejoy. “Our collaboration with PLDT Enterprise allows us to extend our reach and impact, ensuring that more Filipino businesses can access the resources and technology they need to succeed in a digital-first world.”
A Shared Vision for MSME Growth
The partnership builds on previous MSME-focused efforts by PLDT Enterprise and its subsidiaries, including collaborations with the Department of Trade and Industry, Maya Philippines, and the PLDT-Smart Foundation. These initiatives aim to empower Filipino entrepreneurs by providing the digital tools, knowledge, and solutions needed to grow their businesses.
While PLDT has long been committed to supporting MSMEs, this partnership with USAID further strengthens that commitment. It ensures that even the smallest businesses have the digital capabilities required to succeed in today’s marketplace. This collaboration underscores both organizations’ long-standing dedication to fostering resilience, sustainability, and growth for small businesses across the Philippines.
By leveraging their collective expertise and resources, PLDT Enterprise and USAID are ensuring that MSMEs have access to transformative digital solutions that enable them to remain competitive and resilient in today’s digital-first world.
